WANA (Jul 26) – During a meeting with deputy ministers and senior officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs this morning (Saturday, July 26), President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of creating an appropriate framework to enable Iranians living abroad to return to their homeland with ease. He stated:
“Mr. Araghchi, as Foreign Minister, should follow up on this matter. We will also take any necessary measures to support this process.”

 

Addressing the gathering, President Pezeshkian said: “If we adhere to the general policies outlined by the Supreme Leader and follow national strategic plans, then we must also entrust those operating on the ground with the authority to act within those frameworks. If any mistakes occur, we should supervise, assist, and correct them, so that the country can move forward effectively.”

 

He continued: “With your cooperation, the support of our people, and a necessary shift in our perspective, we will make strengthening relations with our neighbors our top foreign policy priority. Relations outside of this regional framework will be pursued in a different, appropriate manner.”

 

Referring specifically to foreign policy and regional engagement, Pezeshkian underscored: “We now need intensified efforts in foreign policy to enhance our ties with neighboring countries—especially Turkey, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, and the Persian Gulf states.
It’s truly unnecessary to focus only on distant countries. If we improve our relationships with these immediate neighbors, we can achieve significant and tangible outcomes.”

People attend an anti-Israeli rally following the Israeli strikes on Iran, in Tehran, Iran, June 14, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

He added: “In this pursuit, we must be more proactive and draw on our academic, commercial, artistic, cultural, and tourism capacities. Improving border-crossing processes is one of the practical steps that can be implemented in this direction.”

 

The President reiterated: “We must design a proper framework so that Iranians abroad can return home without fear or difficulty. Some current policies may be causing concern or apprehension about coming back. It is essential that we hold discussions with the Judiciary, the Ministry of Intelligence, and other security institutions to ease the conditions for their return.”

 

He emphasized: “Many of our compatriots, who remain deeply connected to Iran, wish to return without worry or complication, and we must benefit from their presence and capabilities in advancing the country. God willing, Mr. Araghchi will pursue this issue seriously, and we will take all necessary steps to ensure Iranians abroad can return with peace of mind and contribute their valuable potential to national development.”

 

Speaking on the atrocities committed by the Zionist regime, Pezeshkian said: “Those who claim to be defenders of human rights and humanity—I honestly cannot bear to watch the images coming out of these tragedies.”

People attend a rally in support of the people of Gaza, after Friday prayers in Tehran, Iran, July 25, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

He added: “When I see these scenes, I struggle to come to terms with them. Where are the European countries, the human rights organizations, and the international institutions? Those who constantly speak of humanity and rights—how can they justify these savage operations being carried out against the people of Gaza? How can anyone believe this?”

 

The President went on to say: “It is truly shameful that some media outlets stationed at our borders—especially Iranian ones—when offering commentary, fail to understand or even acknowledge what is actually happening in Gaza, Syria, and elsewhere. Such disregard and denial of reality are unacceptable.”

 

Pezeshkian further stated: “People entered Evin prison and murdered innocent individuals, and yet afterward, some claim it’s unclear what happened to political prisoners. They accuse the Islamic Republic of gross human rights violations. And now, these same voices defend Israeli aggression? It’s disgraceful that such hypocrisy is ignored.”

He concluded: “God willing, we will overcome obstacles and continue to serve with full commitment. Today, we are here to simply thank you, to express our gratitude, and to tell you: may God strengthen you. We urge you to fan the flames of your determination, intensify your efforts, and strengthen connections across all sectors—domestically and internationally. Work to open up avenues of communication and exchange.”

 

Pezeshkian added: “May we become a loud and clear voice against this aggression—one that resonates with all people of conscience across the globe.”