Iranian President Masoud ​Pezeshkian said ‌in a letter addressed to ​the ​American people that ⁠his country ​harbours no ​enmity towards ordinary Americans, Press TV ​reported ​on Wednesday.

He said in ‌his ⁠letter that portraying Iran as a ​threat ​was “neither ⁠consistent with ​historical reality ​nor ⁠with present-day observable facts.”

President Pezeshkian questioned the US foreign policy and urged American citizens to reflect on whether Washington is acting in its own national interest or on behalf of its allies.

In the letter released on Wednesday, Pezeshkian said he was speaking to those seeking clarity “amid a flood of distortions and manufactured narratives,” presenting Iran as a nation that has historically avoided aggression.

“Iran has never, in its modern history, chosen the path of aggression, expansion, colonialism, or domination,” he wrote, adding that the country has instead acted to defend itself against external threats.

The Iranian president also drew a distinction between governments and ordinary citizens, stating that Iranians hold no hostility toward the American people or other nations.

He described this as a deeply rooted cultural principle rather than a temporary political stance.

Pezeshkian argued that perceptions of Iran as a global threat are politically constructed, suggesting such narratives are used to justify military presence, economic pressure and arms expansion.

He pointed to the extensive US military footprint around Iran as a source of regional tension, while characterising Iran’s own military posture as defensive.

The letter comes amid ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel, which Iranian officials have described as unprovoked aggression.

Pezeshkian said recent military actions, launched from US bases in the region, highlight what he called the risks posed by foreign military presence near Iran’s borders.

He maintained that Iran’s actions constitute “a measured response grounded in legitimate self-defence,” rejecting accusations that Tehran initiated hostilities.

Pezeshkian also referenced historical grievances, including the 1953 coup in Iran, which he described as US interference that undermined the country’s democratic process and contributed to long-standing mistrust.

He said subsequent developments — including US support for Iran’s former monarchy, backing of Iraq during the 1980s war, and economic sanctions — have further strained relations.

He warned of the human cost of the current conflict, saying military action has had a “destructive and inhumane impact” on civilians.

“When war inflicts irreparable harm on lives, homes, cities, and futures, people will not remain indifferent toward those responsible,” he said.