Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reaffirmed on Tuesday that Tehran will steadfastly defend the nation’s rights amid ongoing diplomatic negotiations. Speaking at a ceremony marking National Industry and Mining Day in Tehran, Pezeshkian emphasized that the country’s diplomatic efforts will not yield to external pressure and underscored the importance of maintaining national unity.

Pezeshkian highlighted the resilience of Iran’s manufacturers and industrial sector, crediting them with sustaining production and bolstering the economy despite the challenges posed by war and international sanctions. He asserted that adversaries aimed to destabilize the country by imposing severe economic and military pressures, but said the combined efforts of the private sector and producers helped thwart those attempts and shifted the dynamics toward negotiation.

The president also pointed to the coordination between the government, private sector, and public as crucial in preventing significant shortages of essential goods, despite disruptions to electricity supplies caused by attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure amid what he described as a U.S.-Israeli campaign against Iran.

Regarding ongoing diplomatic talks with the United States, Pezeshkian stated that Iran’s delegation is proceeding based on principles of dignity, wisdom, and national interest. He emphasized that the Iranian negotiating team remains firm in protecting the country’s rights, notably aiming to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to facilitate oil exports and safeguard strategic interests. While accusing the opposing side of failing to meet its commitments, he said Iran has nonetheless achieved outcomes beyond initial expectations and effectively managed complex challenges within a limited timeframe.

Pezeshkian also cautioned against what he termed “uninformed and politically motivated criticism” of the negotiations, warning that such remarks could undermine national achievements and weaken domestic solidarity. He stressed that unity and cohesion are fundamental to Iran’s strength and are vital for advancing both economic development and diplomatic goals. His administration, he added, remains committed to addressing the concerns of businesses by removing obstacles to production and fostering a more conducive economic environment.