Iran’s Pezeshkian Demands Sanctions Relief, End to US Threats Before Talks

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared Tuesday that Washington must cease its pressure campaign, retract threats, and lift sanctions before any diplomatic engagement can occur. Speaking during a meeting in Tehran with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, Pezeshkian attributed regional instability—including tensions in the Strait of Hormuz—to what he characterized as U.S. warmongering, according to remarks carried by state broadcaster IRIB.

“The Americans must explain why they started the war and embroiled themselves and the world in it,” Pezeshkian stated.

On the prospect of negotiations, he was unequivocal: “Before any negotiations, they must first end the pressure and threats and lift sanctions.”

Munir arrived in the Iranian capital on Tuesday leading a delegation of officials. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei characterized the visit as primarily focused on bolstering bilateral ties and cooperation between Tehran and Islamabad. Addressing speculation that the Pakistani military chief might be conveying a political message or military warning, Baqaei acknowledged that some discussions involved negotiations, though the majority centered on bilateral relations. He underscored the significance of the neighboring countries’ relationship and ongoing efforts to expand cooperation.

The meeting unfolds against a backdrop of persistent friction between Iran and the United States, with diplomatic initiatives to resolve differences at a standstill. Pakistan has assumed a mediating role in attempts to de-escalate tensions between Washington and Tehran amid the conflict initiated by the U.S. and Israel on February 28.

Source link