Tehran (TDI): Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Wednesday that Iran does not seek war or instability and remains committed to dialogue and constructive engagement.
He said any attempt by the United States to impose its will or force Iran into surrender would fail, adding that the Iranian nation would not accept such pressure. Pezeshkian also criticized what he called double standards in international conduct, questioning US and Israeli attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in Iran.
His remarks came amid ongoing tensions following the US-Israeli war on Iran and continuing diplomatic contacts being facilitated through Pakistan.
US President Donald Trump, in an interview excerpt, said the conflict was “very close to over,” adding that Iran was interested in reaching a deal. He also suggested that negotiations could resume within days, including possible talks in Pakistan.
Meanwhile, Iran warned of strong retaliation if the US naval blockade continues. A senior Iranian military commander said the blockade would violate the ceasefire and could lead to broader disruption of maritime traffic in the Persian Gulf, Sea of Oman and Red Sea.
The United States, however, said its naval operations had effectively halted commercial maritime movement in and out of Iranian ports, intensifying pressure on Tehran as diplomatic efforts continue in parallel.
Read More: Pezeshkian Says 14m Iranians Ready to Sacrifice Lives as War Intensifies
Officials from the US, Iran and mediating countries have indicated that backchannel diplomacy remains active, with discussions underway on the timing and venue of a possible new round of talks.
Despite escalating rhetoric, both sides have signalled conditional openness to negotiations, though key differences remain over nuclear restrictions, sanctions relief and verification mechanisms. Energy markets have shown signs of stabilisation amid hopes that diplomacy may prevent further escalation.
Analysts say the situation remains highly fluid, with military pressure and diplomatic engagement running in parallel. The next phase is expected to depend on whether both sides can narrow gaps on core security and nuclear concerns.
Read More: PM Shehbaz, Pezeshkian Discuss De-escalation as Pakistan Steps Up Diplomacy
Observers also note that regional actors continue to push for de-escalation, as prolonged instability could further disrupt global energy routes and trade flows. However, the risk of renewed confrontation remains if talks fail to produce tangible progress in the coming days.
