Iran war imposed on us, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Thursday, arguing Tehran was forced into its now six-month conflict with the United States and warning of a strong response if attacks persist.
Iran war imposed on us, president says
Pezeshkian told Fox News host Bret Baier that Iran did not initiate the fighting. “We did not choose war, the war was imposed on us. We do not seek war,” he said in the interview, adding that Tehran would answer “strongly” if it comes under continued attack.
The president’s remarks underscore Iran’s stance that it is reacting to U.S. actions, not seeking escalation. He did not detail specific military steps but framed Iran’s approach as defensive and conditional on future strikes.
His comments come roughly six months into a confrontation that has drawn international scrutiny and raised concerns about broader regional instability. U.S.-Iran tensions have periodically flared in recent years, and Pezeshkian’s warning signals the risk of further retaliation if hostilities continue.
The interview highlights the limited diplomatic space between Washington and Tehran at a moment when regional partners and global powers are urging restraint. The United States has long relied on diplomatic channels and backdoor talks with Iran through intermediaries such as the U.S. State Department and European allies to manage crises.
Regional observers note that both Tehran and Washington remain under pressure from domestic audiences and international partners, with organizations like the United Nations calling for de-escalation and renewed diplomacy.
