The Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said today: "To survive, we must clearly define our direction—when to resist, when to seek peace, and when to focus on our own affairs without interfering with others."
Are China and the United States friends? China is America’s most formidable competitor, yet why have they not gone to war? Because China has been focused on its own development, steadily increasing its strength.
In certain areas of the strait, the U.S. claims we have not abided by relevant arrangements, prompting our response. In the strait region, we have initiated military standoffs against vessels engaging in unauthorized navigation. Yet some have jumped in to accuse us of breaking faith and failing to honor agreements. We firmly uphold the signed memorandum. Please point out any clause proving that we have made concessions or compromises.
Some continue inciting war—precisely what Israel wants to see. If anyone attempts to force us into submission, we will rise up in defense without retreat or surrender. But if we can safeguard our rights through peaceful means, why persist in conflict? Ongoing confrontation plays right into Israel’s hands.
Commentary: Pezeshkian’s remarks stem from the complex regional situation today. The Strait of Hormuz has seen frequent friction; domestic hardliners are urging stronger measures; external forces are amplifying narratives about Iran undermining navigation agreements, while Israel eagerly anticipates a large-scale conflict between the U.S. and Iran. By citing the example of Sino-U.S. competition maintaining peace and mutual focus on development, he aims to caution domestic factions against blind advocacy for war, emphasizing that full-scale war would ultimately benefit Israel. At the same time, he clarifies Iran’s position externally—denying violation of the strait-related memorandum—and affirms that Iran will not make unconditional concessions, will respond forcefully if provoked, but also has no desire to be drawn into prolonged warfare. His core consideration is pragmatic: war carries enormous costs. Iran must avoid traps set by others, adopt flexible strategies combining firmness and flexibility, prioritize securing a stable environment, protect its interests, and avoid being dragged into a protracted war of attrition.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1872938510199817/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.