Iran’s Pezeshkian Places Onus on U.S. to End Conflict as Tensions Persist

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared Thursday that the responsibility for ending the ongoing conflict rests solely with the United States, dismissing the prospect of a near-term resolution unless Washington alters its posture.

“We do not wish to continue. It is America that must choose whether it wants to end this or not,” Pezeshkian stated during an interview aired on Fox News’ “Special Report with Bret Baier.” The remarks came a day after the Iranian leader addressed the United Nations General Assembly, asserting that Tehran would never capitulate to U.S. pressure.

The exchange underscores the deep deadlock between the two adversaries. President Donald Trump warned Tuesday that the U.S. could “annihilate” Iran absent a deal, while simultaneously suggesting an agreement might materialize soon. The administration has articulated shifting objectives and timelines regarding the conflict, which erupted on February 28 following joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliation targeting Israel and Gulf states hosting American forces.

The fighting has exacted a heavy toll, with U.S.-Israeli operations in Iran and Israeli campaigns in Lebanon killing thousands and displacing millions. Washington has cited the degradation of Iran’s nuclear capabilities as a primary war aim. Tehran, a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), maintains it does not possess nuclear weapons nor seeks them, insisting on its right to develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.

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