Iran can withstand more sanctions without US talks, president says

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Monday that Iran can survive without engaging in negotiations with the United States and even withstand increased sanctions as Tehran stands firm amid tough nuclear talks and US demands to cease uranium enrichment.

“It’s not like we will die of hunger if they refuse to negotiate with us or impose sanctions. We will find a way to survive,” Pezeshkian said referring to indirect nuclear negotiations with the US.

Speaking at a ceremony marking the anniversary of the founding of Islamic Azad University, Pezeshkian emphasized self-reliance, unity, and the mobilization of Iran’s domestic talent. “If we reach agreement internally with our people and elites, we will not need anyone else,” he said.

Pezeshkian, a moderate politician elected last year, expressed optimism about Iran’s ability to overcome economic and political challenges, including sanctions. “There are hundreds of ways to overcome problems. We must unite and let our experts act,” he added.

Iran and the United States have engaged in indirect nuclear talks through intermediaries in recent months. While no formal deal has been announced, US officials have hinted at progress toward de-escalation.

Iran has been under heavy US sanctions since Washington withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018. Those have since increased since 2022 with the Woman, Life, Freedom protests leading to further global sanctions for rights abuses and Iran's support of Russia's war on Ukraine garnering others.

Pezeshkian’s administration has signaled a willingness to resolve domestic and international challenges through a combination of dialogue, resilience, and national unity. “Whether the enemy wants it or not, we will bring our country to the place it deserves,” he said.

US President Donald Trump has warned Iran that if a new nuclear deal is not reached, the US will 'bomb' Iran.

However, talks are sticking over the issue of Iran's uranium enrichment which the US wants Iran to stop completely, but which Iran says is its red line.