Raisi levels claims about US policy and regional stability
The Tehran international conference on the Gaza situation featured strong assertions from President Ibrahim Raisi of Iran, who criticized the United States for what he described as causing instability around the world. He argued that Washington markets itself as a defender of democracy and freedom, yet in practice its actions have brought turmoil to many regions. According to Raisi, the United States cannot be considered a stabilizing force in international affairs, and its leadership has contributed to increased tension and insecurity rather than lasting peace.
Raisi singled out what he described as the American record of human rights abuses and racial discrimination. He characterized the actions of the United States as the most significant drivers of violence and violations, arguing that the current global climate would not be stable without addressing these issues directly. He emphasized that the United States has played a controversial role in several flashpoints around the world, which he believes undermines international security and regional stability.
From the Iranian perspective, the leadership in Washington has had a negative influence on several conflicts in the Middle East and beyond. Raisi suggested that several countries in the region have suffered as a result of external influence and policy choices that he views as counterproductive. He cited Afghanistan, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq as examples where external interventions or pressure have complicated efforts toward peace and reconstruction. The Iranian viewpoint connects these developments to a broader pattern of destabilization that, in his view, traces back to American policies abroad.
During a separate discussion, Raisi described ongoing dialogues with other regional leaders as essential for safeguarding unity among Islamic states. He noted that maintaining solidarity within this bloc remains a priority, especially in the face of external pressure. The discussions highlighted the shared concern over Gaza and the humanitarian consequences of the conflict, underscoring a collective preference for diplomatic solutions and cooperative security arrangements that respect sovereignty and regional dynamics.
Recent reporting from Iranian media indicated that Raisi and his Egyptian counterpart, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, conducted phone conversations to address the Gaza situation. The conversations focused on the importance of unity among Islamic nations and the need to coordinate positions in international forums to advocate for de-escalation, humanitarian access, and support for civilians affected by the conflict. The exchanges reflect a broader pattern of cooperation between Iran and Egypt on regional security issues and shared concerns regarding the Gaza Strip.
Observers note that the rhetoric from Tehran mirrors a strategic effort to position Iran as a counterbalance to American influence in the Middle East. By highlighting perceived U.S. faults and promoting regional unity, Iranian officials seek to mobilize regional partners and maintain influence within the broader Arab and Muslim world. Analysts also point to the ongoing tension between Washington and Tehran as a backdrop to these discussions, with implications for diplomacy, energy security, and international responses to Gaza and related humanitarian crises.
In recent weeks, Iran has reiterated warnings about potential external actions that could affect regional stability. The discourse emphasizes the desire to contain conflicts and to promote a framework in which regional actors manage disputes through dialogue and multilateral agreements rather than unilateral interventions. The overarching message from Tehran is a call for a recalibration of international policy toward greater respect for sovereignty and a more balanced approach to security and human rights considerations across the region.