Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reaffirmed the Islamic Republic’s right to pursue its peaceful nuclear program, rejecting the hostile pressure campaigns led by the United States and the Israeli occupation regime.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, President Pezeshkian exposed the decades-long Western deception surrounding Iran’s nuclear activities, denouncing what he called a systematic disinformation effort spearheaded by Washington and Tel Aviv to portray Iran’s legitimate scientific advancement as a threat. The president made clear that Iran’s nuclear progress is grounded in international law, moral principles, and the selfless efforts of Iranian scientists.

“To suggest that Iran’s nuclear program has ended is nothing but wishful thinking and political propaganda,” Pezeshkian declared, dismissing recent claims by U.S. President Donald Trump. “Our strength lies not only in centrifuges, but in the determination of our people and the knowledge of our scientists. No foreign power can dismantle that.”

Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s principled and long-standing position against nuclear weapons, which he said is rooted in Islamic ethics, strategic logic, and humanitarian responsibility. “Iran does not seek nuclear arms – this is a false narrative constructed to justify pressure and aggression against our nation.”

While emphasizing Iran’s openness to genuine dialogue based on mutual respect, Pezeshkian warned against the politics of coercion. “We welcome negotiations that recognize Iran’s inalienable right to peaceful enrichment. But talks must be on equal footing – not dictated terms by arrogant powers,” he said.

In a bold warning to the Zionist regime, President Pezeshkian declared that Iran’s military is fully prepared to respond decisively to any act of aggression targeting its nuclear infrastructure. Referring to the recent confrontation, he reminded the world of Iran’s powerful response to a cowardly Israeli attack: “Within days, our forces launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones in defense of our sovereignty. It was the Zionist entity that pleaded for a ceasefire after just 12 days, proving our deterrent capability.”

The Iranian leader further criticized the Israeli regime’s attempts to minimize the damage it suffered, saying the facts on the ground tell a different story. He emphasized that Iran will never tolerate any encroachment on its security or independence.

As tensions persist in the region, Pezeshkian’s remarks reflect Iran’s enduring resistance in the face of imperialist plots and military threats. Despite continuous pressure, the Islamic Republic remains steadfast – determined to protect its dignity, advance its peaceful nuclear technology, and confront any enemy that dares to challenge its sovereignty. (ILKHA)