Iranian President Urges Stronger Role for Muslim Countries in World Affairs

In a televised interview with Oman's state broadcaster, President Pezeshkian emphasized the potential of Islamic nations to be significant global players.

“In a world where others act, we can also be major and influential actors,” he said.

He noted that Islamic countries are endowed with abundant resources, skilled human capital, a rich culture, and ancient civilization.

“We must not wait for others to set the rules for us. We are capable of shaping the global arena ourselves,” Pezeshkian added.

The remarks came during a state visit to Oman, where the president met with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq and other senior officials to discuss bilateral, regional, and global issues.

The trip was aimed at enhancing friendly and strategic ties between Iran and Oman and advancing mutual cooperation in various sectors.

“Relations between Iran and Oman go back hundreds, perhaps thousands of years,” Pezeshkian said.

“Our discussions led to several official agreements in industries such as trade, education, tourism, healthcare, energy, and clean energy,” he added.

He stressed that both sides are committed to implementing these agreements promptly and effectively.

Asked about Oman’s role in mediating between Iran and the United States, Pezeshkian expressed gratitude.

“We sincerely appreciate Oman’s efforts, especially those of its foreign minister, who has carried a significant burden given the indirect nature of the talks,” he said.

“These efforts have been noted and supported by the Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei as well.”

Regarding future cooperation, Pezeshkian said that Iran and Oman enjoy a high degree of political alignment, especially on regional matters such as peace in the region as well as Palestine and Gaza.

Economically, he acknowledged challenges due to sanctions and transport barriers but confirmed agreements to remove obstacles in customs and logistics.

He proposed turning Oman into a commercial hub linking Iran to Russia, Central Asia, and Africa.

“Economic ties could reach $10 to $20 billion,” he said, underlining the potential for expanded investment and regional connectivity.

On regional security, Pezeshkian called for unity among Islamic nations.

“We must follow the Qur’anic guidance that believers are brothers,” he said, citing both scripture and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

He warned against division sown by external powers, which seek to plunder the region’s wealth by fueling conflict.

He called for a model of regional peace and cooperation rooted in Islamic unity.

“Let’s not allow any language or political voice to break our unity, because that’s against God’s command,” he said.

Touching on the nuclear issue, Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s position that it has never pursued nuclear weapons, citing a fatwa from the Leader.

“Our stance is rooted in belief. We’ve never sought nuclear arms and never will,” he said.

He affirmed Iran’s right under international law to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes, including medical and agricultural applications.

“No one can deny us this right. Science belongs to all humanity,” he said.

He also criticized the assassination of Iranian scientists and the hypocrisy of the Israeli regime as well as Western powers.

Turning to Gaza, Pezeshkian condemned Israeli atrocities against civilians.

“Can the world truly accept such brutality against unarmed people?” he asked.

He questioned the silence of the international community and the credibility of those advocating human rights while ignoring civilian suffering.

“The Islamic world must raise its voice for Gaza and Lebanon,” he said.

He noted that public opinion in Europe and the US is also turning against such violence.

Pezeshkian reaffirmed Iran’s desire for peaceful relations based on mutual respect with neighboring countries.

Quoting Imam Ali (AS), he said, “Our neighbors are our brothers, and we stand ready to help them.”

Asked whether recent shifts in global power dynamics might reshape Iran’s foreign policy, the president said Iran remains committed to values rooted in Islam.

“We want to act as God and His Prophet instructed us,” he said.

He quoted the Qur'an: “Those who hold fast to the Book and establish prayer – We do not waste the reward of the reformers.”

“We live by dignity. Islam taught us that,” Pezeshkian concluded, adding, “I say to all dear youth in Islamic countries to pursue, as much as possible, acquiring knowledge, skills, and valuable arts that exist in the world.”