Iranian president signals openness to peace talks, warns against escalation

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has reiterated his country’s willingness to engage in any talks that could lead to peace, emphasizing the importance of national unity in supporting this path during a parliamentary performance review seminar on Sunday.

Pezeshkian stated that Iran welcomes any dialogue that ensures lasting security and peace, stressing that the country does not seek war or conflict, as both are harmful not only to Iranians but to the entire world. He added that Iran will not back down in the face of force or threats, despite increasing pressure and attempts by adversaries to harm the nation.

The president further noted that religious teachings encourage accepting peace if it brings security and stability, but he warned of the risk of deception, as peace can sometimes be used as a tool to damage Iran. He affirmed that Tehran will pursue peace with wisdom and will honor any agreements it signs with full responsibility.

Diplomatic developments and military warnings

Pezeshkian’s remarks come ahead of Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi’s trip to New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly meetings scheduled for Tuesday, following his visit to Qatar, which has been mediating between Iran and the United States alongside Pakistan for several months.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has expressed readiness to meet his Iranian counterpart in New York, though he warned that significant developments regarding Iran are imminent, hinting at three options: total destruction of Iran, striking a deal, or maintaining economic pressure.

Separately, Iranian forces on Sunday warned of what they described as an "American plan" to resume hostilities and launch attacks on Iranian territory. The unified combat command of Iran’s armed forces said in a statement that it had received information about US preparations for renewed military operations, threatening to strongly target American interests if any attack occurs.