Pezeshkian: National Unity Defeated Pressure Campaign, Keeps Iran Strong

In a televised address on Wednesday marking the beginning of the third year of his presidency, Pezeshkian said his administration had faced one of the most challenging periods since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, citing intensified sanctions, financial restrictions, military conflict, security threats, drought, energy shortages and economic difficulties.

He said Iran's adversaries had sought to weaken the country through comprehensive sanctions, including measures targeting its banking sector, while also attempting to create instability through military pressure. However, he maintained that these efforts had been thwarted by the Iranian people's resilience, vigilance and cooperation with the government.

"The enemies believed they could bring Iran to its knees within days, but national solidarity defeated their plans," Pezeshkian said, adding that as long as the government remained alongside the people, "no power will be able to overcome us."

The president said the administration's top priority throughout the crises had been preserving national cohesion, preventing social fragmentation and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of public services. He praised Iranians from different political and social backgrounds for maintaining unity despite economic hardships and political differences.

Pezeshkian also said foreign pressure had expanded beyond trade restrictions to include Iran's banking and financial systems, while criticizing 'double standards on human rights and attacks targeting Iranian military commanders, scientists and research centers.'

He stressed that Iran's scientific and technological progress had become a target because its adversaries opposed the country's independence and development.

Calling for stronger engagement with Iranians living abroad, the president said authorities should facilitate their return and eliminate unnecessary administrative obstacles.

Expressing confidence in the country's future, Pezeshkian said Iran would continue to overcome external pressure through public solidarity, effective governance and continued investment in science and technology, pledging to devote all his efforts to serving the Iranian people.