Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that it is up to the United States to choose whether to end the ongoing conflict between the two nations. In a US television interview aired on Thursday, Pezeshkian expressed Tehran's desire to cease fighting, emphasizing that Iran does not wish to continue the war. He made these comments during his visit to New York for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Pezeshkian took a defiant stance at the UN General Assembly, asserting that Iran would not "bend at the knee" to Washington. This comes as US President Donald Trump acknowledged ongoing talks between the US and Iran. According to Pezeshkian, Iran is willing to engage in dialogue to resolve issues, but criticized US actions, particularly those instigated by Israel, which he claims have imposed the war on Iran.
In his interview with Fox News' "Special Report with Bret Baier," Pezeshkian insisted that Iran is ready to strike a deal with Trump to end the conflict. He questioned the collapse of a previous ceasefire, suggesting that the US had chosen to undermine it. Pezeshkian expressed Iran's willingness to reach an agreement within international legal frameworks, but stated that the timing of such an agreement, whether before or after the US midterm elections, made no difference to Iran.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi participated in a meeting with Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. However, the talks did not immediately yield a breakthrough. This development comes as the conflict between Iran and the US continues to escalate, with Iran threatening to expand the war to the Indian Ocean if the US attacks again.
Pezeshkian's comments reflect a longstanding Iranian position that the US must take the lead in de-escalating tensions. He emphasized that Iran does not wish to continue fighting, but will not compromise on its principles. The Iranian president's statements have been met with attention from international observers, who are closely watching developments in the region.
The conflict between Iran and the US has been marked by heightened tensions and sporadic violence. The situation has been further complicated by the involvement of other regional actors, including Israel and Saudi Arabia. Against this backdrop, Pezeshkian's call for a US decision on ending the war has taken on added significance.
The international community remains engaged on the issue, with various countries and organizations urging restraint and dialogue. The UN Security Council has recently condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, highlighting the broader regional implications of the conflict. As Iran and the US continue to navigate their differences, the international community will be watching closely for any signs of progress.
Key points
- Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian says the US must choose to end the conflict.
- Pezeshkian expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with US President Donald Trump.
- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with US envoys, but talks yielded no breakthrough.
