WANA (Jan 20) – Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has described the recent events in Iran as a continuation of what he called the failed and unsuccessful efforts of the United States and the Israeli regime during the 12-day war against Iran and its people. He said the historic, million-strong presence of the Iranian nation in condemning “trained and proxy-led rioters” once again thwarted the plots and conspiracies of Iran’s enemies.

 

Pezeshkian made the remarks during a telephone conversation on Monday night, January 19, 2026, with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in which the two leaders discussed regional and international developments, recent events in Iran, and the latest state of bilateral relations and cooperation.

 

During the call, the Iranian president expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s consistent support for what he described as the rightful positions of the Islamic Republic of Iran. He reviewed recent developments in Iran, pointing to what he termed the involvement and backing of the United States and the Israeli regime.

 

Pezeshkian said that since assuming office, his administration has sought to promote convergence, solidarity, and unity among all groups, parties, ethnicities, and religions within Iran, while simultaneously strengthening cooperation, friendship, and brotherly ties with neighbouring and Islamic countries at the highest possible level.

 

He added that alongside these efforts, Iran has faced increased hostility and pressure from Washington and Tel Aviv aimed at disrupting this path.

The state tax building burned during Iran’s protests, on a street in Tehran, Iran, January 19, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Referring again to the recent unrest, Pezeshkian said these events represented a continuation of the failed attempts by the United States and Israel during the 12-day war against Iran. He stressed that the massive and historic participation of the Iranian people in condemning the unrest once again neutralised the enemies’ schemes.

 

According to the president, the Islamic Republic of Iran is now continuing its path “stronger and more resolute than ever,” while further expanding and strengthening relations with neighbouring and Islamic countries.

 

Pezeshkian also praised the Pakistani government’s efforts toward de-escalation and the promotion of peace and stability in the region.

 

He said Iran is confident that the active and effective role of Pakistan, along with other Muslim countries, including Iraq, Qatar, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia, will neutralise attempts by the enemies of the Islamic Ummah to threaten regional security.

 

For his part, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed solidarity between the government and people of Pakistan and those of Iran.

 

He said Islamabad had been closely monitoring recent developments in Iran, noting that the Islamic Republic is of great importance to Pakistan not only as a neighbouring country but also as a key and influential actor in the region and the world.

 

Sharif reaffirmed that Pakistan stands by its “friendly and brotherly” nation as it always has and is fully prepared to play a role in reducing tensions and resolving regional issues.

 

He added that Pakistan is confident the great Iranian nation, with firm resolve and under the prudent and wise leadership of its leaders, will overcome current challenges with success and dignity.

People attend the funeral of the security forces who were killed in the protests that erupted over the collapse of the currency’s value in Tehran, Iran, January 14, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)