Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian Calls for End to War, Says Tehran Is in ‘Position of Power’

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for an end to the months-long conflict with the United States, arguing that Tehran is negotiating from a position of strength.

Speaking during a meeting with doctors on Friday, Pezeshkian said Iran should bring the conflict to an end while, in his view, the country retains what he described as its “power and dignity.”

“It is better that we bring the war to an end now as we are in a position of power and dignity,” Pezeshkian said.

The Iranian president also claimed that the international community had recognised Iran’s position in the conflict and accused the United States of targeting civilian infrastructure.

Pezeshkian further defended a memorandum of understanding reached with Washington in June that was aimed at ending the conflict.

According to the Iranian president, the agreement did not amount to Tehran’s capitulation.

“They cannot find even a single clause in this agreement that indicates capitulation,” he said.

Iran Defends Hormuz Position

The comments come amid continuing tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.

Iran has maintained restrictions around the strategic waterway, while the United States has continued efforts to protect shipping and apply pressure on Tehran.

The situation has created uncertainty for international oil markets, with Washington seeking to maintain energy flows while increasing economic pressure on Iran.

Iranian hardliners have criticised the proposed agreement with Washington, particularly over provisions linked to reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

US Maintains Economic Pressure

Pezeshkian’s comments came as the Trump administration continued shifting its focus toward economic pressure against Tehran.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned that Washington intends to intensify its economic campaign against Iran, with the administration seeking to weaken Tehran’s ability to finance its activities.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has condemned the sanctions, describing Washington’s economic campaign as “economic terrorism” and accusing the United States of committing violations against the Iranian people.

The Iranian government has rejected the US pressure campaign and maintained that it will defend its national interests.

China Criticises US Sanctions

China has also criticised Washington’s latest economic measures against Iran.

Beijing said sanctions and pressure would not provide a solution to the wider Middle East crisis, adding another layer to the international dispute over Washington’s approach to Tehran.

Meanwhile, the conflict remains centred on several major issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions and the future of US-Iran relations.

Pezeshkian’s latest remarks suggest that Tehran is willing to pursue an end to the conflict, but the Iranian government continues to insist that any agreement must not be interpreted as surrender.

For now, the future of the war and the negotiations between Washington and Tehran remain uncertain, with both sides continuing to defend their respective positions.