Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, on the occasion of the national 'Firefighters Day' ceremony on Monday, dismissed renewed Western sanctions as futile, declaring that efforts to bring the Iranian nation “to its knees” are nothing more than an illusion.

Why it matters:

President Pezeshkian’s remarks frame sanctions as political pressure meant to humiliate Iran and signal a government strategy that prioritizes domestic resilience over outside concessions.

The big picture:

 Western measures against Tehran come amid heightened geopolitical tensions and criticism of double standards regarding conflicts such as Gaza. President Pezeshkian is promoting local economic and technological solutions, portraying sanctions as an external threat that can be overcome through internal solidarity.

What he’s saying:

Pezeshkian said those who preach human rights and democracy in Europe and the U.S. have shown hypocrisy in Gaza, where innocent people are being killed. At the same time, major powers shield allies at the UN with vetoes. He accused the West of seeking Iran’s submission and declared that complying would be an act of humiliation that the government rejects. He called on the Iranian people to trust their own experts and innovators to solve domestic problems rather than rely on outsiders.

The president urged a choice for the nation: bow to pressure or stand, work, and innovate to solve problems.

Key points:

  • The government pledges to deploy all available resources to serve the people and address hardships.
  • President Pezeshkian praised firefighters’ public service and used their ceremony to stress civic duty and solidarity.

Go deeper:

The government is emphasizing import substitution, supporting knowledge-based industries, and mobilizing technocrats and entrepreneurs to mitigate the economic impact.

Internationally, Tehran will seek alternative partnerships and deeper self-sufficiency.

Iran Condemns Western Move to Reinstate UN Sanctions as Illegal, Unjust

Hossein Vaez - ahmad shirzadian