Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has responded assertively to Donald Trump’s ‘Maximum Pressure’ campaign, stating that Iran will not negotiate under unjust conditions. During a meeting in Tehran, he emphasized the need for mutual respect in negotiations and condemned threats. He simultaneously reaffirmed Iran’s readiness to strengthen its economy against sanctions while rejecting an ultimatum from Trump regarding its nuclear program.
Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran’s President, has responded sternly to Donald Trump’s intensified ‘Maximum Pressure’ campaign aimed at Iran’s economy and political efforts. Speaking at the Iran Entrepreneurs Forum in Tehran, he emphasized that “Iran is not Ukraine” and will not negotiate under the conditions presented to Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy.
This follow-up comes after a contentious meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy, which sparked significant media attention. Trump asserted that Ukraine was complicating U.S. relations with Russia, suggesting that negotiations with Moscow might be simpler than with Kyiv.
Pezeshkian expressed his concern over the U.S. approach, asserting that Iran’s private sector must strengthen itself against Western sanctions rather than submit to them. He stated, “If we do not sanction ourselves, America or anyone else will not be able to easily sanction us.”
Tensions with the U.S. have intensified since Trump’s withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, leading to severe sanctions targeting Iran’s economy, particularly its oil exports and banking sector. While Iran is willing to discuss sanctions, it refuses to do so under the demands Trump has set for other leaders.
Criticizing Trump’s behavior towards Zelenskyy, Pezeshkian remarked on the need for respectful negotiations, declaring that the language of threats is unacceptable. He highlighted, “If negotiations are conducted with dignity and based on mutual respect and shared interests, we will sit down and talk.”
Pezeshkian also dismissed an ultimatum sent by Trump demanding that Iran cease its nuclear and missile programs in exchange for sanctions relief. He warned that Iranians will not be coerced and stated pointedly, “It is unacceptable for us that they give orders and make threats. I won’t even negotiate with you. Do whatever the hell you want.”, marking a climactic stance against U.S. pressure.
In summary, President Pezeshkian of Iran firmly rejects the terms outlined by President Trump in his maximum pressure campaign. He emphasizes the importance of dignity in negotiations, rejects threats, and asserts Iran’s resolve to strengthen its economy against sanctions. The longstanding tensions since the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA remain a significant barrier to future diplomatic engagements. Pezeshkian’s message underscores Iran’s commitment to national pride over capitulation under external pressures.
Original Source: www.unilad.com
