Iran's Pezeshkian: We did not start the war nor did we seek one

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
16 Jun 2025 08:44

In a charged parliamentary session, President Pezeshkian, once again, condemns the assassination of Iranian scientists and criticizes US complicity in Israeli aggression.

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Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian speaks during a memorial at the parliament in Tehran, Iran, Wednesday, May 21, 2025. (AP)

During a parliamentary session on Monday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered a powerful address condemning the Israeli entity’s ongoing crimes, including the assassination of Iranian commanders, scientists, and civilians. His remarks came during the review of credentials for Ali Madanizadeh, a minister of economic affairs and finance candidate.

Pezeshkian denounced the killings as part of a broader campaign of intimidation, affirming that such actions would not weaken Iran’s resolve. “The enemy cannot drive us or our nation off the stage through killing, assassination, or intimidation,” he said. “For every fallen hero, hundreds more will arise.”

He emphasized Iran’s resilience, noting that the people have consistently confronted betrayal and violence with dignity and strength.

Calling for solidarity, Pezeshkian urged Iranians to set aside internal grievances in the face of what he described as a “brutal and genocidal campaign” targeting the nation. “Now, more than ever, our country needs unity and cohesion,” he stressed. “Only through solidarity can we resist and prevail.”

Iran reaffirms peaceful nuclear principles

The president reiterated that Iran did not seek the war, nor did it initiate it, and has no intention of pursuing nuclear weapons, reaffirming Iranian Leader Sayyed Ali Khamenei's religious edict against weapons of mass destruction.

"We have no intention to develop nuclear weapons,” he affirmed, adding that there is no deviation from this choice.

Pezeshkian defended Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy and scientific advancement, asserting, "We have a right to nuclear energy and research and won't let anyone take that away from us."

He strongly criticized the United States for enabling "Israel's" attacks on Iranian soil, saying, “The US is engaging in coercion and allowing Israel to violate international norms by launching attacks on our country.”

Referring to the assassinations of Iranian scientists, he asked, “What crime had our scientists committed to be targeted and murdered in such a brutal manner?” He underscored that these individuals were not combatants but pioneers in national defense, targeted precisely because of their peaceful yet vital contributions to Iran’s strategic resilience.

Call to action: Mobilizing for justice, resilience

Pezeshkian concluded with a message of perseverance to the Iranian people. He pledged efforts to alleviate hardship in livelihood, healthcare, and medicine, and affirmed that “the entire health system stands beside the people.”

Reiterating Iran’s commitment to Islamic unity, he said, “We have extended brotherhood to all Islamic nations, and we mean it. Israel wants to weaken Muslims one by one, only to impose its dark intentions. That is why all Islamic countries must unite.”

As "Israel's" aggression on Iran intensifies and #Iran retaliates, the contrast in public reaction is undeniable.

In Iran, citizens gathered in public squares, many showing solidarity and calm in the face of Israeli strikes. Meanwhile, across occupied territories, Israeli… pic.twitter.com/CKd58FBFrh
— Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) June 14, 2025

He praised Pakistan’s Senate for passing a resolution in support of Iran and called on citizens to take initiative in their communities. “Just like during the war, when every mosque and neighborhood became a base, today we must mobilize to solve the people's problems. Our people will defend this ancient land with unwavering resolve.”