Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has alleged that Israel attempted to assassinate him during the recent 12-day conflict between the two nations. According to Mr Pezeshkian, Israeli forces tried to “bombard” the area where he was holding a meeting, with the intention of killing him — a plan he claims ultimately failed. While Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, had previously acknowledged an attempt to target Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, this is the first time a claim has emerged regarding a direct attempt on Iran’s president.
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The conflict erupted on 13 June when Israel launched a surprise wave of strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. This occurred just days ahead of a planned meeting between Tehran and Washington for renewed nuclear negotiations. The timing of the attacks, coinciding with diplomacy efforts, has raised further tensions in an already volatile region.
In a rare interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, President Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s willingness to return to the negotiating table with the United States. However, he emphasised the need to rebuild trust, stating that renewed talks would require assurance that similar attacks from Israel would not be permitted during negotiations. He questioned how Iran could proceed if such attacks were once again sanctioned mid-dialogue.
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Meanwhile, Donald Trump is expected to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House to discuss a potential long-term deal involving Iran. Both leaders have also signalled optimism regarding a possible ceasefire with Hamas, suggesting that an agreement could be reached within the coming days.
