Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi attends a joint news conference with his Armenian counterpart following their talks in Yerevan on 25 March 2025Karen Minasyan/AFP
| Published April 9, 2025
In a firm but measured warning, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called on U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to abandon any notion of using military force against Iran, saying the Islamic Republic will not seek war—but will respond to aggression with strength.
Speaking to NBC News in a recent interview, Pezeshkian sought to clarify Iran’s stance amid growing speculation that tensions could flare again under a renewed Trump presidency. “We do not want bloodshed or war,” he stated, “but if they attack, we will definitely respond.”
Diplomatic Tensions Resurface
The interview marks one of Pezeshkian’s most direct messages to the incoming U.S. administration since Trump’s return to political power. Throughout his campaign, Trump made several hawkish remarks about Iran, even suggesting that Israel—a key U.S. ally—might take pre-emptive action against Iranian nuclear facilities.
Iran has long maintained that its nuclear program is strictly for peaceful purposes. Pezeshkian reiterated this position, saying Iran does not seek nuclear weapons and accusing Trump’s administration of engaging in inflammatory rhetoric that destabilizes the region.
A Message to the American People
Striking a diplomatic tone, Pezeshkian also appealed to the broader U.S. public, expressing a desire for peaceful coexistence and understanding. “We respect the American people,” he said, “and we hope Mr. Trump can act in a way that promotes global peace—not another war.”
His comments came amid growing international concern about a possible revival of Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign, which included harsh economic sanctions and the withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA) during his first term.
Washington Yet to Respond
As of publication, there has been no official response from President-elect Trump or his foreign policy team. However, analysts say the new administration’s stance on Iran could significantly shape Middle East dynamics once Trump takes office.
Former U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton, a known Iran hawk, has already urged Trump to take a hardline approach, arguing that “peace through strength” must return to the White House’s strategic doctrine.
Regional and Global Implications
Pezeshkian’s comments signal that Iran is attempting to avoid escalation while preparing for a more confrontational U.S. foreign policy. Some experts believe Tehran is trying to signal flexibility to European and Asian powers who may act as mediators.
Others caution that any miscalculation could spark a dangerous spiral. “The risks of conflict are real if neither side is willing to blink,” said Reza Falahati, a regional analyst based in Turkey. “We’re entering a high-stakes moment in U.S.-Iran relations once again.”
Conclusion
With Donald Trump poised to re-enter the White House, Iran is drawing a red line: military threats will not go unanswered. Whether this leads to renewed diplomacy—or heightened confrontation—will depend heavily on the decisions made in Washington in the coming months.
SOURCES: THE DAILY TRIBUNE – Iranian FM warns Trump against ‘military option’
AL ARABIYA NEWS – Iran FM warns Trump against ‘military option’ ahead of nuclear talks
BARRONS – Iranian FM Warns Trump Against ‘Military Option’
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