Iranian President Responds Firmly to Trump’s ‘Maximum Pressure’ Campaign

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has vocally challenged Trump’s ‘Maximum Pressure’ campaign, asserting that Iran will not negotiate under the same terms as Ukraine. He emphasized that Iran aims to strengthen its economy against Western sanctions, criticized Trump’s behavior towards international leaders, and firmly rejected any ultimatums regarding its nuclear programs. Pezeshkian underscored Iran’s commitment to dignity and respect in negotiations.

Masoud Pezeshkian, the President of Iran, has issued a strong rebuke to Donald Trump in response to his escalating ‘Maximum Pressure’ campaign against Iran. During a meeting at the Iran Entrepreneurs Forum in Tehran, President Pezeshkian asserted that Iran would not accept negotiations under the same terms proposed to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasizing that ‘Iran is not Ukraine.’

The tensions between the United States and Iran intensified after Trump’s withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, which was designed to limit Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for eased sanctions. Since that withdrawal, the Trump administration has pursued a campaign aimed at severely crippling Iran’s economy, targeting key sectors such as oil exports and banking.

Pezeshkian articulated Iran’s desire to bolster its private sector as a means to withstand Western sanctions, remarking, “If we do not sanction ourselves, America or anyone else will not be able to easily sanction us.” Despite expressing readiness for negotiations regarding the lifting of sanctions, he firmly rejected any discussions based on Trump’s current terms.

The Iranian leader criticized Trump’s treatment of Zelenskyy, describing Trump’s behavior in the Oval Office as ‘truly shameful.’ He stated that negotiations should be rooted in dignity and mutual respect, asserting, “The language of threats and coercion is absolutely unacceptable.” He also dismissed an ultimatum from Trump demanding an end to Iran’s nuclear programs in exchange for sanctions relief, warning Trump against making threats.

Pezeshkian concluded with a stern message, stating, “It is unacceptable for us that they give orders and make threats. I won’t even negotiate with you. Do whatever the hell you want.” His statements underline the complexity and heightened tensions in U.S.-Iran relations, particularly in light of Trump’s aggressive foreign policy stance.

In summary, President Masoud Pezeshkian’s response to Donald Trump’s ‘Maximum Pressure’ campaign reflects Iran’s adamant refusal to negotiate under coercive conditions. As tensions between Iran and the U.S. linger, Pezeshkian’s statements affirm Iran’s commitment to maintaining dignity in international relations while opposing intimidation tactics. The ongoing standoff particularly emphasizes the challenges to diplomatic resolutions in a context marked by significant geopolitical stakes. Pezeshkian’s remarks illustrate Iran’s position of resilience and unwillingness to submit to perceived humiliation while reinforcing its desire for respectful dialogue.

Original Source: www.unilad.com