Pezeshkian Says Iran Would Have Been “Destroyed Like Gaza” Without Missiles

Darwin, 25 June : Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said that without its missile capabilities, Iran would have been destroyed like Gaza in attacks by the United States and Israel. He stressed that Tehran will never compromise on its defense capabilities.

Speaking during a visit to Pakistan on Tuesday, Pezeshkian made the remarks, according to Saudi state-owned Arabic-language broadcaster Al Arabiya.

“No compromise” on defense capabilities

Pezeshkian said Iran’s missile arsenal is essential for national survival.

“If Iran did not have missiles, it would have been reduced to rubble like Gaza,” he said.

He added that without such capabilities, Israel and the United States would have “leveled Iran” and would not have spared civilians, including children and the elderly.

He further stated that Iran’s defense capabilities are non-negotiable and will never be part of any agreement or compromise.

Pakistan’s role in mediation talks

During the visit, Pakistan has reportedly played a mediating role in discussions between Tehran and Washington aimed at easing regional tensions.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that preliminary understandings between the U.S. and Iran did not include any reference to missile programs.

Iran’s missile program and regional tensions

Iran has previously launched hundreds of missiles and thousands of drones toward Gulf states and Israel during periods of conflict.

Analysts say Iran developed its missile program during the 1980s war with Iraq to offset weaknesses in its air defenses, later expanding its range and accuracy.

Israel, located about 1,500 kilometers from Iran, views the missile program as a major security threat.

The United States had previously sought to include Iran’s missile program and its support for regional armed groups in broader negotiations alongside its nuclear issue.

However, former U.S. President Donald Trump recently suggested a softer stance, saying it would be “unfair” for Iran to be restricted when other countries possess similar weapons.