Tehran, Iran – Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Iran “is defending its borders but is not seeking to expand the scope of the war,” according to official media reports. His remarks come amid escalating political and military tensions. During this period, he has faced widespread speculation about his political future. This statement was included in a promotional clip for a televised interview with President Pezeshkian. The interview is scheduled to be broadcast officially on Iranian state television. In this context, he addressed the ongoing debate. He asserted, “I will not resign, and I will remain in office.”
Pezeshkian added emphatically, “If I resign, I will officially announce my resignation.” He continued, questioning and clarifying the nature of the institutional challenges: “They want to bring about change; the leadership says one thing, and they say another, but what is the need to explain something so obvious?” Regarding his relationship with the military establishment, the Iranian president stated, “We are in complete agreement with the armed forces; there are people there, and now if I threaten to resign against the leadership’s wishes, won’t they come to me?! This is persecution against these people.”
Masoud Pezeshkian’s firm denial of resignation rumors comes despite earlier statements by Mohammad Baqer Kharrazi, Secretary-General of the Iranian Hezbollah. Kharrazi claimed that the Iranian president had resigned or threatened to resign on several occasions. He also alleged that the leadership had officially and publicly warned against accepting the resignation should it be repeated. Reports indicate that speculation about Pezeshkian’s departure stemmed from exchanges of messages and government objections. These objections concerned the management of the country’s affairs deviating from certain official constitutional channels. Furthermore, these speculations also arose amidst reports of the extensive influence wielded by some military leaders within key state institutions.
However, Pezeshkian’s appearance on state media and his firm reaffirmation of his commitment to his duties, coupled with his emphasis on Iran’s regional and political stance, reflect an attempt to contain internal political controversy. At the same time, it also aims to bolster institutional stability during a critical period for the country, both domestically and internationally. The public and political circles alike eagerly await the broadcast of the full interview. They also await the additional details it may reveal.
