Speaking Thursday at the 156th meeting of the Cabinet, Pezeshkian emphasized good neighborly relations, respect for neighboring countries’ sovereignty and adherence to neighborly rights as key principles of Iran’s strategic policy.

“We sought to avoid war through diplomacy and cooperation with our neighbors, but the U.S.-Israeli military attack left us with no option but to defend ourselves,” he said.

Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran respects the sovereignty of all neighboring countries and continues to believe that stability and peace in the region should be ensured by regional states themselves.

The 156th Cabinet meeting was chaired by Pezeshkian and attended by ministers and other members of the administration.

During the meeting, participants reviewed the latest developments in the country following what officials described as U.S.-Israeli aggression and assessed the performance of executive agencies under wartime conditions. Officials also praised what they described as the Iranian nation’s exceptional unity and resilience and their support for the country and the Islamic system in confronting the attacks.

The government also placed comprehensive assistance to citizens affected by the U.S. and Israeli attacks among its top priorities.

Cabinet members further stressed the commitment of all branches of the government to continue fulfilling their duties and to ensure uninterrupted public services across all sectors.

The meeting also commended the Iranian armed forces for what officials described as their decisive defense of the country and its people and for delivering strong blows to the attackers.