Iranian President gives disturbing response to Donald Trump’s ‘maximum pressure’ campaign
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has issued a stern response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign, which targeted Iran’s economy and politics. Speaking at the Iran Entrepreneurs Forum in Tehran on March 11, Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran will not negotiate with the United States under the same conditions Trump presented to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a contentious meeting last month.
Pezeshkian’s remarks come in the wake of Trump’s highly publicized argument with Zelenskyy in the Oval Office, where Trump accused Ukraine of “playing with World War III” and criticized Zelenskyy for being “disrespectful.” The meeting, which also saw Vice President JD Vance lashing out at Zelenskyy, has raised concerns about Trump’s diplomatic approach.
“Iran is not Ukraine,” Pezeshkian declared, asserting that Iran will not bow to U.S. pressure. He emphasized that while Iran’s private sector seeks to strengthen itself, it will do so to counteract Western sanctions. “If we do not sanction ourselves, America or anyone else will not be able to easily sanction us,” he said.
Tensions between Iran and the U.S. have been high since Trump withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, in 2018. The deal had required Iran to limit its nuclear activities in exchange for eased sanctions. After pulling out, the Trump administration imposed severe sanctions on Iran’s oil exports, banking sector, and other critical services as part of its “maximum pressure” campaign.
Pezeshkian criticized Trump’s handling of international relations, particularly his treatment of Zelenskyy, calling it “truly shameful.” He stated that Iran is willing to negotiate with the U.S. but only under conditions of mutual respect and dignity. “If negotiations are conducted with dignity and based on mutual respect and shared interests, we will sit down and talk. But the language of threats and coercion is absolutely unacceptable,” he said.
The Iranian president also rejected an ultimatum reportedly sent by Trump, demanding that Iran halt its nuclear and missile programs in exchange for sanctions relief. Pezeshkian issued a final warning to Trump, saying, “It is unacceptable for us that they give orders and make threats. I won’t even negotiate with you. Do whatever the hell you want.”
Pezeshkian’s strong words reflect Iran’s determination to resist U.S. pressure and maintain its sovereignty. “We may die with honor, but we will never live in disgrace,” he concluded.
The ongoing tensions between Iran and the U.S. highlight the challenges of diplomacy under Trump’s “maximum pressure” strategy, which has drawn criticism from both allies and adversaries. As Iran continues to navigate these pressures, Pezeshkian’s defiant stance underscores the country’s resolve to stand firm against external coercion.
