Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has made a defiant statement about the possibility of being assassinated, amid growing fears of renewed military confrontation between Tehran and Washington.
Pezeshkian made the remarks on Tuesday as tensions escalated following limited US military strikes on the Strait of Hormuz and Qeshm Island on Monday. The strikes reportedly came after Iranian forces opened fire on a US aircraft.
Despite the rising tensions, the Iranian leader maintained that another round of military confrontation would serve no one’s interests, reiterating his government’s willingness to resolve the crisis through dialogue, negotiations and non-coercive measures.
He also expressed confidence in the resilience of the Iranian people, insisting that the country would remain steadfast despite mounting military and economic pressure.
Iran is currently grappling with severe economic difficulties, including inflation approaching 90 per cent, a weakening national currency and declining oil exports.
Addressing the possibility of being targeted in an assassination, Pezeshkian declared that such an action would not weaken Iran’s resolve.
“Let them assassinate me,” the President said. “Even if they assassinate thousands of people like me, the enemy will not be able to do a damn thing.”
The Iranian leader also disclosed that his government was prepared to take difficult measures to protect critical production facilities and maintain economic activities if the situation deteriorated.
He explained that Iran could be forced to suspend gas and electricity supplies to certain areas to prioritise energy distribution to essential production centres and keep them operational.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials have insisted that the strategically important Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States addresses Tehran’s demands.
Among the conditions reportedly set by Iran are the lifting of naval blockades, relaxation of oil sanctions and an end to military operations against the country.
The development comes amid reports that the US military is preparing for possible fresh attacks against Iran.
According to a report by The New York Times on Tuesday, American military planners are making preparations for a potential strike, which could take place this week following the midterm elections.
The reported preparations have heightened concerns over a possible escalation of the conflict, despite Tehran’s renewed calls for a diplomatic resolution.
