In an interview published on Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's website, Pezeshkian said enemies aim to destabilize Iran through economic, political, cultural, and security assaults. "We are in a full-scale war with the U.S., Israel and Europe; they don’t want our country to remain stable," he stated.
He warned of a decisive response to further attacks, asserting Iran's military is now stronger in equipment and manpower than during June's clashes.The remarks precede Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Monday meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, where Iran's nuclear program and regional influence are expected topics.
Tensions stem from a 12-day war in June 2025, when Israel struck Iranian nuclear and military sites, killing over 1,000, including commanders and scientists. Iran retaliated with missiles, causing 28 deaths in Israel. U.S. forces bombed Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan facilities on June 22, halting nuclear talks. A U.S.-mediated ceasefire ended fighting June 24. Trump revived "maximum pressure" sanctions, while Europe reimposed UN measures.
Pezeshkian urged unity against division attempts, framing sanctions as surrender demands Iran rejects. Analysts warn escalation risks severe economic and humanitarian fallout for Iran, already strained by inflation and limited oil exports.
