Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that regional countries can ensure their own security without foreign intervention, criticizing the roles of the United States and Israel in the region while delivering a message of cooperation.
In his remarks addressed to regional nations, Ghalibaf emphasized that security and stability can be achieved without external interference. He noted that countries in the region can safeguard their common interests through bilateral and multilateral agreements.
In an article written for Al Jazeera, Ghalibaf evaluated the war that began following U.S.-Israel attacks, describing Washington’s military actions against Iran as “Israel’s war.” He argued that Tel Aviv’s “Greater Israel” objective threatens regional security, adding that tensions in the region and the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz are consequences of this process.
“This war is not only against Iran”
Ghalibaf stated that the ongoing war is not only directed at Iran but also against regional security and the unity of the Islamic world. He claimed that the U.S. military presence in the region does not provide security but instead increases instability, alleging that some military bases have been used for attacks against Iran.
Message of cooperation from Iran to neighboring countries
Ghalibaf also highlighted Iran’s policy of strengthening relations with neighboring countries, noting that the Beijing Agreement signed with Saudi Arabia is an important example of this approach.
Quoting from the Qur’an in his article, Ghalibaf stressed that enhancing the country’s defense capacity is “legitimate and necessary,” adding that Iran’s security doctrine is based on self-reliance and strategic independence.
“The oil security model has lost its validity”
Stating that regional countries can build security based on shared economic interests without foreign intervention, Ghalibaf said that the “oil security” model is no longer valid.
Ghalibaf concluded with the following remarks:
“The painful experiences of recent years are now before our eyes, and it is time to learn from them. It is clear that the era of relying on the ‘oil security’ model has come to an end; security cannot be bought, it must be produced. U.S. presidents come and go, but Iran remains in this region. This reality requires a realistic approach that eliminates the root causes of insecurity and moves toward security without the United States and Israel.”
He added that sustainable development and collective security can be achieved through mutual cooperation based on political, military, and economic interests, and affirmed that Iran is ready for such cooperation.