Pezeshkian has called for an end to the ongoing West Asia war, saying Tehran should seek a settlement while it remains in a position of “strength and dignity”
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for an end to the ongoing Middle East war, saying Tehran should seek to conclude the conflict while it remains in a position of “strength and dignity”, Iranian news agency ISNA reported.
Pezeshkian said ending the war now would be preferable to allowing it to drag on and potentially undermine Iran’s position.
Speaking at a meeting with doctors, Pezeshkian said Iran should consider ending the conflict while it believes it has the upper hand.
He claimed the world recognises Iran’s “victory” and accused the United States of targeting Iranian schools, hospitals and infrastructure in violation of international rules.
His remarks suggest Tehran is open to bringing the conflict to an end while seeking to negotiate from what it considers a position of strength.
Tehran steps up criticism of US sanctions
Pezeshkian’s comments came after Iran’s Foreign Ministry accused Washington of pursuing “economic terrorism” and committing “crimes against humanity” through its sanctions campaign.
In a statement carried by Iranian state media, the ministry said those responsible for imposing the sanctions should face trial and punishment.
The remarks followed Washington’s announcement that it would intensify economic pressure on Tehran as part of its efforts to force changes in Iran’s policies.
More from WorldUS vows to increase pressure on Iran
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Thursday warned that Washington would seek to “collapse” the Iranian regime as the US prepared to expand its sanctions campaign.
The latest measures come nearly six months into the conflict and reflect Washington’s broader strategy of increasing economic pressure on Tehran.
The United States has also urged other countries, including China, to support efforts to isolate Iran economically.
China rejects sanctions as solution
Beijing criticised Washington’s approach, arguing that sanctions and economic pressure would not resolve the conflict.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Friday that “sanctions and pressure will not help resolve the issue”.
China called on all sides to adopt responsible measures and pursue a political and diplomatic solution to the crisis.