Iran’s Resistance Amid Economic Struggles
In a recent interview on Fox News Channel’s “Special Report,” Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed his nation’s determination to resist U.S. military actions directed at Iran.
Pezeshkian also disregarded the notion that Iran’s activities were influenced by the U.S. election cycle.
Partial transcript as follows:
BAIER: I have a few additional questions for you. Back in March, you cautioned that without a cease-fire, your country’s economy could collapse, potentially within three weeks to a month. That was six months ago. Your own statistics indicate the Iranian economy has contracted by 10 percent, inflation is soaring, and the rial has lost over half its value within a year. Furthermore, oil exports have dropped dramatically from 2 million barrels a day to about 250,000.
In light of this situation, how long can Iran endure?
PEZESHKIAN (through translator): This situation has been caused by the actions of the United States. We will persist in our resistance. We will find solutions, and our nation will endure. President Trump often claimed he wanted to offer a gift to the Iranian people, but what he delivered was guided missiles and destruction. Their true aim seems to be to create chaos in our country, leading to the collapse of our government.
BAIER: Were you mistaken in March about the economic timeline, or is the economy now collapsing?
PEZESHKIAN (through translator): We will continue to resist until the end. Yes, we face economic challenges, but we will persevere through any hardship. If America thinks their sanctions will force us to capitulate…
BAIER: How much are your decisions…
PEZESHKIAN (through translator): …that they can dream about that.
BAIER: … influenced by the U.S. midterm elections?
PEZESHKIAN (through translator): We do not concern ourselves with American elections. If the current U.S. administration wants to negotiate within the framework of international law, that’s fine. But whether it’s before or after their elections, it doesn’t change anything for us.
BAIER: Do you believe the war will end before the year is out?
PEZESHKIAN (through translator): We absolutely do not wish to engage in conflict. However, we will firmly defend ourselves. War is not something we seek. I genuinely believe humanity should not harm one another. We should be able to resolve our differences through dialogue. However, due to provocations from Israel, this war has been forced upon us. Ultimately, it’s up to America to decide if they want to bring this to an end.
