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Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on September 12, 2026, that West Asia does not need the United States to act as a “regional policeman.” He made the remarks during the BRICS Summit in India while meeting Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Pezeshkian said the countries of West Asia should be responsible for their own security. He argued that regional nations should work together to protect their borders, territorial integrity, and stability instead of depending on outside powers. His comments come at a time of serious conflict between Iran and the United States. One of the main areas of tension is the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway that plays a major role in the global oil trade. The conflict began on February 28 after U.S.-Israeli strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader. Iran responded with attacks in several parts of the region and moved to block the Strait of Hormuz. Before the blockade, the waterway carried around one-fifth of the world’s oil supplies, making the conflict a major concern for international energy markets. Iran has since tightened its control over ships trying to pass through the strait. Ships are reportedly required to obtain permission from Iran and may also have to pay service fees. Vessels that do not follow these requirements could face Iranian attacks. At the same time, the United States has carried out strikes along Iran’s coastline in an effort to challenge Tehran’s control over the strategic waterway. Six months into the conflict, the situation has had a major impact on the global economy. The disruption around the Strait of Hormuz has pushed oil prices above $100 per barrel, increasing concerns about fuel costs, inflation, and international trade. Despite the continuing fighting and its impact on civilians, Pezeshkian said that peace remains Iran’s main priority. He stressed that regional countries should take greater responsibility for maintaining peace and security and reduce the involvement of outside powers in West Asian affairs.