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Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on Sunday that Iran is seeking to end the war "with dignity."
The Iranian president categorically rejected the U.S. demands on Iran's nuclear rights, saying, "Trump says Iran cannot use its nuclear rights, but does not say for what crime. Who is he to deprive a nation of its rights?"
He also called on Iranians to stand firm and united against what he described as a "bloodthirsty and brutal enemy" that began the war unprovoked.
Pezeshkian was unambiguous in rejecting the premise of U.S. nuclear demands.
"Trump says Iran should not use its nuclear rights, but does not explain what crime Iran has committed. Who is he to deprive a nation of its rights? Any free person will not bow their head in the face of such injustice," he said.
He framed Iran's position as purely defensive.
"We are not war-mongers, we are peace-seeking and we are defending ourselves. We did not start the war. We did not attack anyone. We have no intention of attacking anyone. But if a person is attacked and does not defend themselves, they are already dead. We were attacked and we defended ourselves, fortunately with strength," he said.
He added that the current atmosphere must be managed so that Iran is not portrayed as the aggressor.
"We must stand firm against a bloodthirsty and brutal enemy without creating an impression that we are seeking war," he noted.
Pezeshkian also addressed Iranian athletes at the Sports Ministry, praising the Iranian women's football team's performance at the Asian Cup in Australia and extending reconciliation to two players who had sought asylum.
"Our girls in Australia delivered a strong blow to the mouth of the enemies. Those two dear girls who were misled by the enemies, our arms are open to them whenever they return," he said.
He praised athletes as symbols of national pride and resistance, saying: "A champion's spirit is one that does not bow before threats to the country and does not allow the dignity and independence of its homeland to be undermined."
He called for all internal differences to be set aside in the face of external threat.
"Just as in families, disagreements exist, but what matters is unity and solidarity, especially in the face of external threats and inhumane behavior," he added.
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