We ‘ll not succumb to external pressure, Iran President vows By Dally Iyamu 

We ‘ll not succumb to external pressure, Iran President vows

By Dally Iyamu 

As conflict escalates across the Middle East following a series of deadly strikes and counter-strikes, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has warned that the country will not bow to pressure from Israel or the United States, signalling Tehran’s resolve to stand firm.

In a televised national address, Pezeshkian stated that calls for what he described as “unconditional surrender” would be rejected.

He affirmed Iran’s commitment to resisting external pressure despite recent military exchanges that have heightened regional instability.

Reports indicate that the latest escalation followed coordinated strikes on Iran by Israel and the United States, triggering wider regional confrontation and increased tensions across the Middle East.

Iran reportedly responded with missile and drone operations targeting Israeli and U.S. interests in the Gulf region.

Pezeshkian, who is serving in an interim leadership capacity following the death of Ali Khamenei, said the transitional council is managing the country’s affairs while constitutional procedures for selecting a new supreme leader continue.

During his address, the Iranian president also apologised to neighbouring countries potentially affected by the military exchanges, stressing that the operations were not intended to target them.

He assured that measures are being taken to prevent further escalation involving surrounding nations.

Pezeshkian further revealed that the interim council had agreed to limit additional military responses unless Iran faces direct attacks originating from neighbouring territories.

The statement underscores the deepening geopolitical strains in the region as diplomatic efforts continue to seek de-escalation.