Iran’s president warns against “false optimism,” says both sides struggling

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for greater honesty in public messaging, warning against “misleading narratives” that suggest adversaries are weakening while domestic conditions are improving, the president's press service reports.

Speaking at a meeting of government public relations officials in Tehran, Pezeshkian said that “misleading messages and false information suggesting that the enemy is being destroyed while we are flourishing are wrong,” adding that “they and we have problems.”

“We will not bow to any power,” he said, stressing that Iran would not compromise its dignity for comfort, but must still be governed with “prudence and rationality”.

The President highlighted energy inefficiency as a growing concern, noting that Iran’s consumption of electricity and gas is around three times higher than Europe’s. He warned that continued overuse could trigger shortages in both summer and winter, including potential disruptions to industrial supply.

Pezeshkian also placed strong emphasis on national unity, arguing that internal division posed a greater threat than external force. “They cannot take over the country with bombs and missiles, but they can through discord,” he said.

On foreign policy, he rejected calls to abandon negotiations, insisting Iran would “negotiate with dignity” and defend its interests through reasoned engagement rather than slogans.

Referring to recent conflicts and casualties described by him as the “third imposed war”, Pezeshkian said Iran had suffered losses but remained resilient. He also drew parallels with Gaza, condemning what he called “genocide” and criticising international responses.

Acknowledging economic pressure, he warned that conflict would bring hardship, including inflation, but said those choosing resistance must be prepared for its costs.

Domestically, he urged broader participation in governance, rejecting elitism and calling for greater involvement of citizens, local officials, NGOs and industry groups in decision-making. He said provincial authorities had been granted greater autonomy to address local challenges.

He added that government communication must be rooted in truth, stating: “Lying is the worst sin,” and urged officials to ensure accurate and transparent public messaging.

Pezeshkian concluded that Iran’s institutions were working “around the clock” and that responsibility must be delegated more widely to improve accountability and efficiency.

By Aghakazim Guliyev