Former Iranian President Mohammad Khatami has criticised Iran’s approach to the Palestinian issue, saying Tehran has no right to place itself in the position of the Palestinian people or determine the path they should follow.
Khatami, one of the most prominent figures associated with Iran’s reformist movement, said Iran could provide moral support to those struggling for freedom but could not replace the people directly involved or decide their choices for them.
His remarks were captured in a video published by Iran International following an event on October 13, according to a report by Al Arabiya.
Khatami argued that occupation does not confer legitimacy, while emphasising that Palestinians alone have the right to determine their political future.
He also warned that outside intervention could lead to widespread suffering and that Palestinians might ultimately choose a different path from the one favoured by their supporters.
‘Iranian People Have Paid a Heavy Price’
The former president also criticised the consequences of Iran’s involvement in Palestinian affairs, saying the country’s policies had imposed a heavy burden on the Iranian population.
His comments point to a broader debate within Iran over the country’s foreign policy priorities, particularly its support for regional groups and movements commonly associated with the so-called “Axis of Resistance”.
Iran has faced significant economic challenges, adding to public debate about how the government allocates resources between domestic needs and regional commitments.
Khatami’s remarks raise questions about whether Tehran’s regional approach adequately reflects the interests and priorities of its own citizens.
Palestinians Must Decide Their Own Future
Khatami’s position draws a distinction between supporting the Palestinian cause and determining its political direction.
He maintained that Iran could express solidarity with those seeking freedom, but should not assume the authority to make decisions on their behalf, particularly when confronting a much stronger power.
His comments also acknowledge that Palestinians may choose a political course different from the one preferred by Iran or other external supporters.
The remarks come amid continuing international debate over Palestinian self-determination, foreign involvement in regional conflicts and the role of outside powers in shaping political outcomes.
Mohammad Khatami served as Iran’s president from 1997 to 2005 and became a leading figure in the country’s reformist movement. His presidency was associated with calls for greater political and social openness within the framework of the Islamic Republic.
Although Khatami has criticised aspects of Iran’s political direction, his reformist position has remained within the country’s existing constitutional and political system.
His latest reported comments add to discussions about Iran’s regional strategy and the balance between international commitments and domestic priorities.
Khatami says Iran may support Palestinians morally, but the right to determine Palestine’s future belongs to the Palestinian people themselves.
This report is based on the supplied Al Arabiya article.
