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According to the Jerusalem Post, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared that Tehran would not yield to external pressure or threats, responding forcefully to recent remarks by US President Donald Trump amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran.
Speaking during a televised interview, Pezeshkian emphasized Iran’s determination to defend its sovereignty and national interests, warning that the country would continue pursuing its policies despite mounting international pressure.
“Iran will stand firm against any pressure or threat,” Pezeshkian said, reaffirming the Islamic Republic’s commitment to resisting what it views as foreign interference in its domestic and regional affairs.
The comments came after Trump issued fresh warnings directed at Iran, accusing Tehran of destabilizing activities across the Middle East and cautioning that the United States would respond decisively to any threats against American personnel or interests in the region.
Pezeshkian rejected what he described as coercive tactics, arguing that threats and sanctions have historically failed to alter Iran’s strategic calculations. He said Iran remains committed to protecting its independence and security while pursuing diplomatic engagement based on mutual respect.
The Iranian president stressed that meaningful dialogue could only take place if all parties respected Iran’s rights and refrained from intimidation. He added that Tehran would not negotiate under pressure and would continue to strengthen its defensive capabilities in response to regional developments.
Relations between Iran and the United States have deteriorated sharply in recent months following a series of military incidents and confrontations in the Gulf region. Tensions intensified after Washington conducted strikes on Iranian military infrastructure, actions US officials described as defensive measures aimed at protecting American forces.
Iran has condemned the strikes as violations of its sovereignty and has warned that continued military pressure could further destabilize the region. Iranian officials have repeatedly stated that they reserve the right to respond to any attacks targeting the country or its interests.
Pezeshkian also sought to project confidence in Iran’s resilience despite economic challenges caused by sanctions and regional instability. He argued that the country had weathered decades of external pressure and remained capable of overcoming current difficulties.
Analysts say the president’s remarks reflect a broader effort by Iranian leaders to demonstrate unity and resolve at a time of heightened uncertainty. Tehran has consistently maintained that its military and nuclear policies are defensive in nature, while Western governments have expressed concern over Iran’s regional activities and expanding nuclear capabilities.
The exchange of warnings between Washington and Tehran underscores the fragile state of relations between the two longtime adversaries. While neither side has indicated a desire for a broader military confrontation, the increasingly sharp rhetoric has raised concerns among regional observers about the potential for miscalculation.
For now, Iranian leaders appear determined to signal that pressure from abroad will not alter the country’s course. As Pezeshkian stated, Iran “will stand firm against any pressure or threat,” a message aimed at both domestic audiences and international rivals as tensions continue to simmer across the Middle East.
