By Staff Reporter | 27 January 2026
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has warned that escalating tensions in the Middle East would undermine regional security, saying instability “benefits no one”, as the United States increases its military presence near Iran.
Pezeshkian made the remarks during a phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), held shortly after the arrival of a US aircraft carrier in the region amid growing fears of a fresh confrontation involving Iran, the United States, or Israel.
According to Iranian officials, the president criticised what he described as US “threats”, saying they were intended to disrupt regional stability and would only fuel insecurity. He also pointed to sustained economic pressure and foreign interference against Iran, noting that such measures had failed to weaken the country’s resilience.
In response, Prince Mohammed welcomed dialogue and reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regional security, stability and development. He stressed the importance of solidarity among Islamic countries and rejected any form of aggression or escalation against Iran.
Saudi Arabia’s official news agency, SPA, reported that the crown prince assured Pezeshkian that the Kingdom would not allow its airspace or territory to be used for military action against Iran, regardless of the party involved. He also reiterated Riyadh’s support for resolving disputes through dialogue.
Pezeshkian expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s position, thanking the Kingdom for respecting Iran’s sovereignty and acknowledging the crown prince’s efforts to promote peace and stability across the region.
The call comes as US President Donald Trump continues to issue warnings against Iran following Tehran’s violent crackdown on recent antigovernment protests. Trump confirmed that a large US naval force, including an aircraft carrier, has been deployed to the region, while stating he still hoped Iran would agree to US demands.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned neighbouring countries that any use of their territory, airspace or waters against Iran would be considered hostile.
Tensions remain high following Israel’s June 2025 attacks on Iranian military and nuclear sites, which later drew direct US involvement. Planned nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran collapsed after the conflict, and talks have yet to resume.
Iran has repeatedly stated it will retaliate if attacked, while warning that any strike could destabilise the entire region.
