Why it matters:
This provincial tour to Ilam underscores Pezeshkian's inclusive message and defiant stance toward international sanctions. Delivered in one of the most war-scarred provinces, his remarks are nationalistic as well as strategic.
The big picture:
As Iran faces continued illegal economic sanctions and regional tensions, Pezeshkian is reinforcing a theme of collective strength rooted in faith, identity, and meritocracy. Ilam’s wartime legacy provides fertile ground for building support around resilience and reconstruction, as it has proved to be at the forefront of resisting foreign pressure.
What Pezeshkian is saying:
President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized his commitment to serving the nation with sincerity and humility, declaring that he is merely fulfilling a responsibility entrusted to him.
He praised the resilience of the Iranian people, particularly those who defended their homeland during wartime without surrendering a single inch to the enemy.
Stressing a policy of principled diplomacy, he asserted that while Iran seeks constructive dialogue with the world, it will not submit to coercion or injustice.
Underscoring the inclusive nature of the country, Pezeshkian affirmed that Iran belongs to all its ethnic groups, Kurds, Turks, Lors, Arabs, and others, not to any single faction.
He further highlighted the immense potential of Iran’s youth and experts, stating that with their talent and dedication, the country’s challenges can be addressed swiftly and effectively.
Key points:
- Ilam was praised for its sacrifice during the Iran-Iraq war, with the highest proportion of martyrs and POWs.
- Pezeshkian pledged to leverage Ilam’s untapped underground and above-ground resources.
- Denounced U.S. and EU sanctions, framing Iran’s defiance as rooted in divine trust.
- Referenced Imam Ali’s teachings and the upcoming Eid al-Ghadir to unite religious and political themes.
Go deeper:
Pezeshkian emphasized merit-based progress and inclusivity across Iran’s ethnic spectrum. He held meetings with local leaders and promised participatory policymaking to address Ilam’s issues. The speech echoes the administration’s broader strategy: national solidarity paired with regional diplomacy.
Ashkan Salehian
