Pezeshkian: Iran ready for dialogue but will not abandon military potential

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran is ready for dialogue to protect national interests but will not agree under pressure to abandon the country's sovereignty and defense potential, Tasnim reported.

In his address to the Iranian people, Pezeshkian stressed that Iran did not start the war and that the decision to enter negotiations was made to protect national interests and prevent unnecessary escalation.
The president rejected reports that his government had allegedly forced the country's leadership to agree to talks. According to him, key decisions were made in coordination with Iran's leadership and with its approval.
Pezeshkian said that during diplomatic efforts Iran reached agreements with European representatives, but later European countries, according to him, abandoned an independent position and began seeking to trigger the snapback mechanism to restore sanctions against Tehran.
The Iranian president stressed that diplomacy and defense do not contradict each other and that negotiations can serve his country's interests if conducted from a position of strength.
At the same time, Tehran will not agree to demands to dismantle its military and defensive capabilities.
"Iran will never abandon its military and defensive power and will not bow to them," Pezeshkian said.
He also warned that Iran's opponents seek to deprive the country of the ability to defend itself and put it in a position similar to Gaza.
Pezeshkian said Tehran has no intention of attacking other states, seizing territories or expanding its borders. According to him, Iran seeks peaceful coexistence with its neighbors.
Speaking about the agreements reached after the conflict, the president noted that Iran gained significant advantages without agreeing to unacceptable concessions. In particular, he mentioned the Strait of Hormuz: according to him, Iran agreed to allow vessels through it in accordance with its rules, while the other side must fulfill its obligations.
Pezeshkian also spoke about improved relations between Iran and neighboring countries. According to him, many long-standing problems have been resolved and bilateral ties significantly strengthened. He accused Israel and the United States of trying to turn Persian Gulf countries against Iran and said Tehran seeks to prevent such a rift.
The Iranian president stressed that he considers Muslim countries brothers and called for preventing conflicts between them. According to him, internal disagreements could be used by external forces against Iran.
Pezeshkian separately denied reports of disagreements between the government, the foreign ministry and the armed forces on issues of war and negotiations. He said all key decisions were made through the relevant national security bodies and that military and security structures supported them.
"The government is fully coordinated with the armed forces," the Iranian president stressed.
He also rejected reports of disagreements with Iran's supreme leader, saying his government had consistently followed the country's leadership policy.
In conclusion, Pezeshkian stressed that unity among Iran's political, security and military institutions is necessary to confront external pressure and overcome regional and international challenges.