Iran stands firm on ‘path of peace’, Pezeshkian says, calls for US trust

Iran remains committed to pursuing the “path of peace” under its recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States, President Masoud Pezeshkian said, while making clear that Tehran’s willingness to negotiate rests on Washington creating an atmosphere of trust.

Addressing a press conference on Saturday, Pezeshkian said Iran was determined to use the MoU as the foundation for further engagement, but only if the United States moved away from what Tehran considers an atmosphere of distrust.

“Now is the best time to reach an agreement, as there is solidarity, power and unity in the country,” he said, underscoring Iran’s confidence in its position as negotiations remain uncertain.

Pezeshkian stressed that Iran’s commitments would be guided by reciprocity, saying Tehran would match its obligations to the level of US compliance with the MoU. Iran, he said, would not accept any attempt to impose a settlement through force.

The Iranian president also reiterated that the country’s course of action would ultimately be shaped by Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei’s decisions, highlighting the central role of Iran’s leadership as Tehran navigates the delicate diplomatic process.

Pezeshkian had earlier defended Iran’s decision to enter dialogue with Washington, saying Tehran remained committed to negotiations aimed at safeguarding its rights while refusing to be forced into surrender.

In an interview published on the website of his office on Friday, he said Iran would continue honouring its obligations as long as the United States fulfilled its own commitments under the MoU. Should Washington fail to uphold its side of the understanding, he said, Iran would no longer be bound to continue.

The remarks come amid speculation over divisions within Iran’s leadership following the signing of the MoU. Earlier this week, Pezeshkian also dismissed reports that he was preparing to step down, saying he would continue his work “resolutely”.

Iran and the United States signed the MoU in June as part of efforts to end the war across all fronts, including Lebanon. The two sides were expected to begin negotiations within 60 days towards a final agreement, but renewed regional tensions have cast uncertainty over the future of the talks.

For Tehran, the message remains clear: peace and dialogue remain possible, but Iran expects reciprocity, guarantees and respect for its rights.

With IANS inputs