"We believe in negotiations, but we will not negotiate at any cost," said Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian during a meeting with representatives of political parties and civil organizations on Sunday night. 

Why it matters:

U.S President Donald Trump has written a letter to Iran's Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, calling for negotiation with Iran. Tehran has also responded to the letter, while also stating that the threatening content of Trump's letter is not helpful.

 

What he's saying:

"We are not seeking war, unrest, or nuclear weapons; we are looking for negotiations. However, the Americans must also demonstrate that they are committed to genuine dialogue," Pezeshkian emphasized.

He further stated, "We believe in negotiations, but not in humiliation. We engage with the entire world and do not wish to fight with anyone. Yet, we will not submit to humiliation or negotiate under duress. Our goal is peace; how else can we assure the world? We seek negotiations, but it is essential that they also prove their willingness to engage."

Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran does not intend to use its nuclear capabilities for non-peaceful purposes, describing this stance as a religious decree from the Leader.

He also noted that positive actions are being taken by the government across various sectors and mentioned his personal commitment to attracting investments—both domestic and foreign—and addressing investors' concerns.


Go deepen:

Despite multiple discussions between Iran and the United States, the U.S. approach following these talks has fostered increasing pessimism in Tehran. For instance, during the Afghan war, while Iran was engaged in negotiations with the U.S., President George W. Bush later categorized Iran as part of the "axis of evil" in a speech to Congress after the conflict.

Hossein Amiri