Tehran [Iran], April 15 (ANI): Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday strongly pushed back against what he described as external pressure and military aggression, asserting that any attempt to impose force on the Islamic Republic would ultimately fail, amid a fragile ceasefire and ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a complete halt to hostilities in West Asia.
According to Iranian state media ISNA, Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran remains committed to constructive dialogue but will not yield to coercion, as reports suggest a possible second round of talks between Washington and Tehran following a stalemate in initial discussions held in Islamabad.
“We emphasize constructive dialogue, but will not be forced to surrender. Any attempt to impose will or force Iran to surrender is doomed to failure, and the people will never accept such an approach. Iran is not seeking war,” he said, as quoted by ISNA.
His remarks come amid heightened tensions following a US-imposed blockade targeting Iranian ports, further escalating already strained relations between Tehran and Washington.
Pezeshkian also questioned the legality and morality of recent actions by US and Israeli forces, raising concerns about attacks impacting civilian infrastructure.
“With what authorization and for what crime was the attack on our country carried out?” he asked, adding, “What justification does targeting civilians, elites, children, and destroying vital centers—including schools and hospitals—have within the framework of international law and humanitarian principles?” as quoted by ISNA.
The Iranian president reiterated that while the country seeks peace and diplomatic engagement, it will firmly resist any form of external aggression or pressure that undermines its sovereignty.
Earlier in the day, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that a full blockade of Iran’s ports has been successfully implemented, with US forces asserting maritime dominance across key regional waterways, particularly the Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement, CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper said that within 36 hours of initiating the blockade, US forces had effectively stopped all maritime trade flowing in and out of Iran.
“A blockade of Iranian ports has been fully implemented as US forces maintain maritime superiority in the Middle East. An estimated 90 percent of Iran’s economy is fueled by international trade by sea. In less than 36 hours since the blockade was implemented, US forces have completely halted economic trade going into and out of Iran by sea,” the statement read.
CENTCOM revealed that more than 10,000 US personnel, including sailors, Marines, and airmen, alongside over a dozen warships and dozens of aircraft, are involved in the blockade operation. (ANI)
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