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

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared on Friday that it would be an opportune moment to seek an end to the war with the United States, citing the country's current position of strength and dignity. His remarks were made at a medical conference amidst mixed messages from both Tehran and US President Donald Trump regarding the conflict.

The partial truce agreed in June has been in an ambiguous state since expiring without progress or renewal on Monday, with Tehran continuing to restrict shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the US enforcing what it calls a blockade of Iran's ports. Trump threatened increased economic pressure on Iran this week, but the extent of the impact of such measures on a heavily sanctioned country with minimal trade with the US is uncertain.

Pezeshkian also stated that the war would eventually have to be ended, expressing that the world recognizes Iran's victory and that the US has violated Iranian schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. He argued that the 15-point Memorandum of Understanding signed by Iran and the US in June does not signify defeat for Iran, as it only concerns the US side with a minority of commitments affecting Iran.

The president emphasized that Iran would resist until its last breath and warned of crushing, punishing, and devastating responses if the US attempts further economic isolation. US military leader Major General Ali Abdollahi also warned of a broad and decisive military response to any new threats from the US, while chief negotiator Mohammad Qalibaf called for plans to deal with unjust sanctions to overcome them.