Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared on Monday that Tehran will not accept "excessive demands" by the United States in the ongoing negotiations mediated by Pakistan, according to the state news agency IRNA. Speaking during a meeting with members of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, Pezeshkian emphasized that the talks are structured to fully secure the rights of the Iranian nation.
Economic Warfare and Solidarity
Pezeshkian asserted that while the enemy has shifted its focus to economic warfare after military failure, the government and private sector, through solidarity, empathy, and cooperation, will successfully navigate this phase. His remarks come amid heightened regional tensions following US and Israeli strikes against Iran in February, which prompted Iranian retaliation targeting Israel and US allies in the Gulf, as well as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Ceasefire and Negotiations
A ceasefire mediated by Pakistan took effect on April 8 and was later extended indefinitely by US President Donald Trump. On Saturday, Trump stated that an agreement with Iran to end the conflict had been "largely negotiated" and was awaiting finalization. However, Pezeshkian's latest comments indicate that significant differences remain, particularly regarding US demands.
- Iran insists on full protection of its national rights.
- The US has been accused of shifting to economic warfare tactics.
- Pakistan continues to play a mediating role between the two nations.
