Iran will stand firm against any aggressor, Pezeshkian says

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that Iran will not back down in the face of any aggressor, while emphasizing that his nation does not initiate conflicts. Pezeshkian affirmed that Tehran will stand firm against any aggressor and that no power can force a nation determined to resist into surrender. He stressed that Iran has the backing of diplomatic efforts, the support of its people, government officials, and the sacrifices of armed forces' commanders, and that Iran will not bow to any threat.

Meanwhile, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, with only permission from Iran allowing ships to pass through. He dismissed claims of uncoordinated ship passage, asserting that Iranian armed forces have full oversight over movements in the Strait. Regarding ongoing attempts by mediators Pakistan and Qatar to restart talks, Gharibabadi noted that Iran has made clear to Qatar and Pakistan the steps the United States must take.

He emphasized that the United States violated all commitments in the Memorandum of Understanding and is the party that must implement these commitments.