Iranian President Responds Firmly to Trump’s ‘Maximum Pressure’ Campaign

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has vehemently opposed Donald Trump’s ‘Maximum Pressure’ campaign, stating that Iran will not negotiate under coercive conditions. He expressed strong sentiments about preserving dignity in negotiations and rejected an ultimatum from Trump regarding Iran’s nuclear programs, emphasizing self-reliance against Western sanctions.

In a recent statement, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has expressed strong opposition to former President Donald Trump’s ‘Maximum Pressure’ campaign against Iran’s economy and governance. During a gathering of the Iran Entrepreneurs Forum in Tehran, Pezeshkian asserted that “Iran is not Ukraine” and firmly rejected the notion of negotiating under the same conditions that were presented to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The backdrop to Pezeshkian’s comments includes a contentious meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy, which was marked by tense exchanges. Following the encounter, Trump suggested that engaging with Russia might be more favorable than with Ukraine, highlighting a concerning shift in U.S. foreign relations dynamics.

Pezeshkian emphasized the resilience of Iran’s private sector, stating that it aims to strengthen itself to counteract Western sanctions. He remarked, “If we do not sanction ourselves, America or anyone else will not be able to easily sanction us,” illustrating Iran’s commitment to self-reliance amid external pressures.

Since President Trump’s withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, relations between Iran and the U.S. have deteriorated significantly. The JCPOA had previously established a framework for Iran to limit nuclear activities in exchange for eased sanctions; however, the U.S. reimposition of stringent sanctions has severely affected Iran’s economy.

While Iran has maintained a willingness to negotiate the removal of sanctions, Pezeshkian clarified that such discussions will not take place under the coercive terms promoted by Trump. He criticized Trump’s behavior toward Zelenskyy as “truly shameful,” asserting that negotiations based on dignity, respect, and mutual interests are essential.

In response to an ultimatum from Trump, demanding an end to Iran’s nuclear and missile programs for sanctions relief, Pezeshkian firmly stated, “It is unacceptable for us that they give orders and make threats. I won’t even negotiate with you. Do whatever the hell you want.” This highlights Iran’s refusal to be dictated to in international negotiations.

The remarks by President Masoud Pezeshkian illustrate Iran’s staunch resistance to the United States’ ‘Maximum Pressure’ campaign led by Donald Trump. Pezeshkian’s refusal to negotiate under coercive terms underscores Iran’s commitment to its sovereignty and its determination to counteract Western sanctions through internal strengthening. His emphasis on respectful negotiations reflects a broader call for dignified international relations.

Original Source: www.unilad.com