Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Iran will not back down in the face of pressure, saying, “We will not sacrifice the country’s honor for our comfort and worldly interests.” Pezeshkian also criticized rhetoric rejecting negotiations, adding, “We negotiate with dignity.”
Pezeshkian said that Iran would not bow to any power and would not compromise on the country’s honor.
According to Iran’s official news agency IRNA, Pezeshkian made remarks regarding recent developments and the country’s situation during a meeting in Tehran attended by government officials. Arguing that Iran’s enemies would not be able to force the country into submission with missiles, bombs, and aircraft, Pezeshkian said the real danger lies in the breakdown of national unity.
“We will not surrender. Under no circumstances will I bow to any power. We will not sacrifice the country’s honor for our comfort and worldly interests, but we must govern the country wisely,” he said.
“The Slogan ‘We Will Not Negotiate’ Has No Meaning”
Pezeshkian also criticized anti-negotiation rhetoric, saying, “The slogan ‘We will not negotiate’ has no meaning. If we do not negotiate, then what should we do? We negotiate with dignity.”
Stating that Iran is in the right and capable of defending its national interests, Pezeshkian said they would continue to protect the country’s rights with the support of the people.
“Speaking logically and responding logically cannot be achieved through slogans, but only on the ground. We serve our people and our country with all our existence. Even at the cost of our lives, we will stand honorably against foreigners, negotiate, and defend the rights of our people,” he said.
Calls for Energy Conservation
Pezeshkian, who had previously drawn attention to the country’s energy crisis, once again called for energy conservation.
Stating that Iran consumes nearly three times more electricity and natural gas than Europe, Pezeshkian warned that serious problems could arise during the summer and winter months if the current trend continues.
He noted that power and natural gas outages could be prevented if regulations were followed, adding, “Our gasoline production capacity has decreased. We produce 100 million liters per day, but our need is 150 million liters.”