TEHRAN – Iranian President Masudo Pezeshkian has strongly criticized Tehran, particularly the combination of threat language and a call for negotiation, to emphasize Iran’s “on an equal footing” engagement in consultations.
In a statement on Saturday, Pezeshkian said, “Iran’s Islamic Republic is seeking dialogue on equal footing. They will threaten Iran on one hand and try to negotiate on the other.” He further questioned the contradictions of the US approach, asking, “If you are seeking negotiations, why are you blackmailing me?”
The statement came in response to recent comments from US President Donald Trump. President Donald Trump called for direct negotiations with Iran over the nuclear program, but simultaneously issued threats, including the potential use of military force in the event of diplomacy failure.
Pezeschkian argued that US actions not only humiliate Iran, but also undermine the credibility of the global community. “Today, the US humiliates not only Iran but the world, but this action contradicts the demands of dialogue,” he said.
If an agreement on Iran’s nuclear program cannot be reached, Trump’s threat escalates over the weekend, along with new warnings of bombing and secondary tariffs. Additionally, the US has deployed additional fighter jets in the region, further increasing tensions.
In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi expressed concern that the US threat complicates the situation, but repeated the country’s openness to indirect negotiations with the US over a peaceful nuclear program. Araghchi emphasized that meaningful consultations must avoid threats, intimidation or use of scary mail. “This requires a constructive atmosphere and avoidance of a threat, threat, and a horror mail-based approach,” he added.
In addition to addressing the ongoing nuclear debate, Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of promoting internal unity on regional and international issues and improving Iran’s involvement with other countries. He emphasized the need for the state to overcome internal sectors to counter external pressure.
“If we put the internal conflict aside and accept unity, our enemy will not long for us, and we can also solve the problems of people,” concluded Pezeschkian. He called on all Iranians to cooperate in addressing the country’s challenges and improving the well-being of their citizens.