Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has issued a strong warning, saying U.S. President Donald Trump’s actions could set the Middle East on fire. In an interview with NBC Nightly News during his visit to New York, he declared that Iran does not fear war or death.
President Pezeshkian firmly stated that Iran never starts wars but will always defend itself with full force. He added that Iran’s growing capabilities are a shield against future attacks. He said Trump’s approach to “peace” could instead drag the whole region into chaos. Though Iran avoids conflict, it will respond fiercely if attacked.
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Pezeshkian spoke openly about the June war with Israel that killed senior Iranian commanders, scientists, and hundreds of civilians. He himself was wounded in the conflict. “Our enemies attacked us to create more martyrs,” he said. “We are not afraid of martyrdom. I’ve already lived my life.” He dismissed his injury as minor and said he recovered quickly.
When asked about Iran’s underground nuclear site reported by The Washington Post, he welcomed international inspectors. He said stories based only on satellite images are misleading. “If they truly seek the truth, let them come and inspect the site on the ground,” he challenged.
However, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei recently ruled out talks with the U.S. on nuclear enrichment or ballistic missiles. While Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, hardliners want atomic weapons. The UN Security Council will soon vote on a resolution by Russia and China to delay sanctions, but they may still take effect this weekend.