Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Monday called for a united front to fight extremists in the Middle East and said Tehran was ready to help "bring about democracy" in Syria and Yemen.
Making his first address to the UN General Assembly since the historic nuclear deal was reached, Rouhani waded into the intense diplomatic debate over fighting jihadists and pushing for regime change in Syria.
Rouhani extended an invitation "to the whole world and especially the countries in my region to form a joint comprehensive plan of action to create a united front against extremism and violence."
The grouping would tackle regional problems through dialogue, prevent the slaughter of innocent civilians, and build democratic governance in the region, he said.
Rouhani spoke after Russian President Vladimir Putin called for a "broad coalition" to stamp out the Islamic State group but stressed that the Damascus regime must take part in the effort.
