Iranian president calls for immediate end to conflict with US, says Tehran negotiating from position of strength

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared on Friday that Iran should cease the ongoing war, asserting that the nation is currently in a position of power and international recognition of its victory, according to the Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA). "It is wiser to end the war today, when we are in power and dignity, and the whole world acknowledges our victory, emphasizing that America, despite all regulations, attacked our schools, hospitals, and infrastructure and is reviled globally," Pezeshkian stated.

The president expressed confidence in Iran's armed forces, stating, "Today, we believe that all our commanders and armed forces are fully prepared to defend the country with all their might and with their lives in their hands. They also believe that the government is wholeheartedly seeking to serve the people."

Pezeshkian's remarks follow earlier reports that the likelihood of the Iran conflict escalating in the near future has diminished. Sources indicated that US President Donald Trump's decision to impose a further stringent round of economic sanctions serves to "buy time" until after the US midterm elections. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are anticipated to heighten their readiness level in accordance with these developments.