Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that his country is fully prepared for any potential war with Israel, expressing skepticism about the current ceasefire between the two nations.
In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, Pezeshkian confirmed that Iran will continue its nuclear program for peaceful purposes. His comments come after the 12-day conflict with Israel last month, in which the US intervened on Israel’s behalf, launching strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Pezeshkian warned that Iran’s armed forces are ready to strike deep inside Israel again. “We are not very optimistic about the ceasefire,” he said, adding that Iran has prepared itself for any possible scenario and potential response.
Iran Won’t Compromise On Nuclear Enrichment
The Iranian president also addressed Israel’s strikes, which targeted leading military figures, nuclear scientists, and nuclear facilities. He stated that Israel’s attempts to “eliminate” Iran’s hierarchy have completely failed.
The conflict resulted in significant casualties, with over 900 people killed in Iran, mostly civilians, and at least 28 people killed in Israel. A ceasefire took hold on June 24.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to continuing its uranium enrichment program, despite facing international opposition. He emphasized that Iran’s nuclear development will proceed in accordance with international laws.
Pezeshkian clarified that Iran rejects nuclear weapons, aligning with its political, religious, humanitarian, and strategic stance. He expressed openness to diplomacy, stressing that future negotiations must adhere to a mutually beneficial approach, without succumbing to threats or dictates.
In response to US President Donald Trump’s claims that Iran’s nuclear program is terminated, Pezeshkian dismissed this assertion as an “illusion.” He highlighted that Iran’s nuclear capabilities are rooted in the expertise of its scientists, rather than physical facilities.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian disclosed that Israel had attempted to assassinate him during a meeting of the Supreme National Security Council in Tehran on June 15, leaving him with minor injuries.
Pezeshkian stated that the assassination attempt was part of a broader Israeli plan to target Iran’s political leadership, following the killing of senior military figures. The goal, he said, was to create chaos and ultimately “overthrow” the Iranian government.
However, Pezeshkian emphasized that Israel’s plan had failed.