Pezeshkian: Iran Open to Dialogue, But Will Not Be Forced to Surrender

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has reaffirmed Tehran's commitment to dialogue as a means of safeguarding its rights, while firmly stating that the country will not be forced into surrender. The remarks came during a televised address marking his second year in office.

Pezeshkian defended his administration's decision to engage in negotiations with the United States, which culminated in the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in June aimed at ending the war. Under the terms of the agreement, the two sides were scheduled to hold talks within a 60-day period to reach a final accord.

The president asserted that Iran made no concessions during the ceasefire negotiations. He noted that the agreement was originally intended to be signed by U.S. President Donald Trump to ensure compliance, but claimed the U.S. side completely altered its position within less than 24 hours.

Pezeshkian stated that Iran remains committed to its obligations as long as the United States fulfills its commitments under the MoU. "Wherever they fail to fulfill their commitment, we have no obligation to continue," he said.

On diplomatic efforts with Europe, Pezeshkian said Iran had reached an understanding with France during negotiations aimed at preventing the snapback mechanism, but the United States did not allow it. He added that Europe lacks the authority to make independent decisions.

Addressing regional relations, Pezeshkian warned that the U.S. and Israel were seeking to drive a wedge between Iran and other Persian Gulf countries during the latest conflict. He stressed that Iran does not intend to attack other nations, seize territory, or expand its borders, but will resolutely defend its national sovereignty and security.

The president noted that U.S. military bases in these countries were used to launch attacks on Iran, forcing Tehran to take self-defense action. He called on Islamic countries to strengthen solidarity and trust.

Pezeshkian also rejected claims of disagreements between the government and the armed forces, saying a tightly coordinated stance among the government, parliament, judiciary, and military successfully thwarted foreign adversaries' predictions that Iran's regime would collapse. He further denied rumors that he was intending to resign, saying he would not back down from serving the Iranian people.