Iran's President, Masoud Pezeshkian, has suggested that countries are actively trying to reduce tensions in the ongoing conflict across the Middle East.

He said on social media a little while ago: "Some countries have begun mediation efforts. Let us be clear: we are committed to lasting peace in the region, but we do not hesitate to defend the dignity and sovereignty of our nation. Mediation should be directed at those who underestimated the Iranian people and ignited this conflict."

Pezeshkian is part of the three-person ruling council formed to govern Iran on an interim basis immediately after the death of the supreme leader last Saturday.