WANA (Apr 19) – Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian asserted that while Iran is not looking to expand conflict, it will firmly exercise its right to self-defense against international aggression.

 

Speaking at a state event, the President framed Iran’s military stance as “legitimate defense” while accusing the West of attempting to destroy Iranian civilization and return the country to the “Stone Age.”

 

Who is the US to Decide for the World?

During a visit to the Ministry of Sport and Youth, President Pezeshkian directly challenged the U.S. stance on Iran’s nuclear program, questioning the legitimacy of American interference.

 

“The U.S. says Iran should not use its (nuclear) rights. Who do you think you are? Any free human being—regardless of religion, creed, race, gender, or ethnicity—will not bow down in the face of such cowardice and injustice.”

 

Criticism of International Silence and “Double Standards”

The President launched a sharp critique of international organizations, including the United Nations, accusing them of remaining asleep or closed in the face of regional atrocities.

 

Targeting Civilians: He highlighted the bombing of residential areas, hospitals, and schools, specifically noting the killing of 168 schoolchildren as an indefensible act.

 

Hypocrisy: Pezeshkian argued that Western claims regarding human rights and democracy are completely undermined by the “criminal attacks” carried out by the Israeli regime and the U.S. against Iran and the broader region.

 

The “Stone Age” Threat: He pointed to the contradictions in enemy rhetoric, noting that while they claim to want progress for the Iranian people, they simultaneously threaten to “return Iran to the Stone Age” and destroy its civilization.

 

Strategic Patience and Legitimate Defense

Addressing the current military tensions, the President emphasized that Iran has never been the initiator of conflict. “Iran is not seeking to expand war and has not started any conflict,” he stated. “We have not attacked any country… we are merely engaged in legitimate self-defense.”

 

He credited the country’s Armed Forces—including the Army, the IRGC, and the Basij—for their decisive response to recent attacks, stating that their capabilities have surprised international analysts.

 

A Call for National Unity Against Foreign Threats

Pezeshkian urged all citizens, particularly athletes and public figures, to prioritize national identity over internal disagreements when faced with external pressure.

 

Internal vs. External: He admitted that internal differences of opinion are natural, much like within a family, but stressed that unity and empathy are vital, especially against external threats and inhumane behaviors.

 

Reflecting on a recent example, the President praised the Iranian women’s national futsal team for their conduct in Australia. He noted that despite domestic grievances, their commitment to returning to their homeland showcased a profound sense of patriotism and national zeal that serves as a model for the country.

 

Condemning Collaboration: The President expressed regret over individuals who consider themselves Iranian but reside abroad, using “hostile media” to justify the crimes committed by the U.S. and Israel against their own homeland.

 

He further noted that a hero’s spirit does not bow to threats against the country. Even if there are disagreements on domestic issues, when it comes to the homeland, the soil, and national identity, the spirit of resistance must prevail.