Iran's president: Time to end war in 'position of strength'

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on Friday that it would be a suitable time to attempt to end the war with the United States, according to state news outlets. His remarks were made during a medical conference, amidst conflicting messages from both Tehran and US President Donald Trump regarding the ongoing conflict. The cease-fire that was reached in June is currently in a precarious state, having lapsed without resolution on Monday.

Iran continues to restrict shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, while the US is attempting to enforce what it terms a blockade of Iran's ports. Trump has recently hinted at increased economic sanctions against Iran, but the extent to which the US can further tighten its grip on the heavily sanctioned nation is uncertain. Pezeshkian suggested that the timing is propitious for negotiations, citing Iran's current position of strength and dignity.

The Iranian military commander threatened severe and devastating responses if the US were to impose further economic pressure. President Pezeshkian emphasized that the entire world recognizes Iran's victory and condemns America's attacks on its schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, in violation of international regulations. He also argued that Iran's partial 15-point Memorandum of Understanding with the US does not signify defeat for Tehran, as all commitments pertain to the US, with a few minor exceptions.

Pezeshkian warned that Iran will not yield to intimidation and will resist until its "last breath." Meanwhile, US President Trump threatened a "most crushing economic operation ever taken against another country," claiming it would be the "greatest coordinated economic isolation in the history of the world," and said it would "collapse this regime."