President urges unity, praises women’s role in national development
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday made an unannounced visit to the Vice Presidency for Women and Family Affairs in Tehran, calling for stronger public engagement in national development and emphasizing the “pivotal” role of women in social participation.
In remarks to senior officials from the Women’s Affairs office and the National Population Headquarters, Pezeshkian said women possess “stronger motivation” and “better capacity” for social involvement, president.ir reported.
He warned against excluding voices based on ideology or identity, saying, “We must stop dividing people into insiders and outsiders. This country belongs to all Iranians.” His comments mark a shift toward more inclusive rhetoric just weeks after assuming office.
Pezeshkian criticized current policies for falling short despite heavy spending, especially in culture and population planning. “When the results don’t match the input, it’s time to rethink the way we operate,” he said, urging officials to act on data rather than “rushing into structural overhauls.”
Touching on his war-era experience, he recalled how public solidarity had helped the country pull through both the 1980s Iran-Iraq War and the recent 12-day conflict with Israel.
“People stood their ground so shortages wouldn’t spark unrest,” he said. “Some even set aside personal frustrations to deny the enemy a chance to exploit them.”
He praised women’s influence at home and in society, calling them “a cornerstone” in shaping future generations and national resilience. “As mothers and wives, their impact is serious. And they’ve shown greater drive when it comes to social engagement,” he said, challenging the notion that their role should be limited.
He concluded by calling for “unity of purpose” across divides. “The only way to build this country is by embracing diversity, fostering solidarity, and pooling every ounce of national potential.”