Why it matters:
Pezeshkian’s remarks set the tone for Iran’s future diplomatic posture, signaling continuity with the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei’s line, engagement, but without compromising dignity or national security.
His comments also reaffirm Iran’s longstanding rejection of programs for nuclear weapons, claimed by Western countries most of which have nuclear bombs.
The big picture:
The U.S. and its allies continue to pressure Iran over its nuclear activities, while Iran is shaping its foreign policy more clearly.
What he’s saying:
- "We are ready to negotiate, just not directly. We don’t trust them. Dialogue must be based on respect and mutual guarantees.”
- “We have never pursued nuclear bombs, never in the past, not now, not in the future. Come inspect us a thousand more times.”
- “They label us supporting terrorism, but we are the victims. Over 23,000 of our best people have been assassinated.”
- “We don’t seek war, but we will stand firm against any aggression. The more we’re threatened, the stronger we’ll become.”
- “We want peace, especially with neighboring Islamic countries. Our message is one of brotherhood, not conflict.”
Key points:
- Iran remains committed to peaceful nuclear development.
The remarks reject Western portrayals of Iran as a regional disruptor.
Go deeper:
Broader Iranian strategy is clear: engage where possible, resist where necessary. Emphasis on dignity, science, and regional peace is calibrated to reassure both domestic and international audiences. But beneath the diplomatic tone lies a warning—any repeat of foreign intervention will be met with decisive resistance.
Hossein Vaez
