Iranian president insists conflict with US was not of Tehran's choosing
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran was compelled into the ongoing conflict with the United States and does not seek war. He warned that Iran would respond forcefully if attacks persist, and denied allegations that Tehran is delaying a deal until after the U.S. midterm elections. Pezeshkian also reiterated that Iran has never pursued nuclear weapons.
Pezeshkian's remarks came during a Fox News interview while he attended the UN General Assembly in New York, where he also delivered a defiant address to the world body. The conflict between Washington and Tehran has now persisted for roughly six months, with President Trump recently issuing fresh threats of further destruction should negotiations fail to produce an agreement.
The Iranian leader referenced a June memorandum of understanding with the U.S. that ultimately collapsed, insisting Tehran remains willing to revive that framework. He also noted that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, killed in February by U.S.-Israeli strikes, had issued a religious decree declaring nuclear weapons unlawful. Pezeshkian accused Washington of attempting to destabilize Iran and foment unrest to bring down its political system.
This exchange could shape public perception of the U.S.-Iran standoff on both sides, potentially influencing domestic political pressure ahead of the midterm elections. Americans may weigh the administration's hardline approach against the prospect of prolonged military engagement, while Iranian citizens face the human and economic costs of continued conflict. The dispute over nuclear weapons and negotiation timing could also affect regional stability, with neighboring states and global markets watching for signs of escalation or diplomatic breakthrough.