President Pezeshkian says forcing Iran to surrender is an “illusion”

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran has fulfilled its obligations and kept all diplomatic channels open, warning that attempts to force Iran into capitulation through pressure are an “illusion.”

“Iran has consistently honored its commitments and explored every avenue to avert war; all paths remain open from our side,” Pezeshkian wrote on the social media platform X.

“Forcing Iran to surrender through coercion is nothing but an illusion. Mutual respect in diplomacy is far wiser, safer, and more sustainable than war,” he added.

Iran has consistently honored its commitments and explored every avenue to avert war; all paths remain open from our side. Forcing Iran to surrender through coercion is nothing but an illusion. Mutual respect in diplomacy is far wiser, safer, and more sustainable than war.

— Masoud Pezeshkian (@drpezeshkian) May 20, 2026

By Jeyhun Aghazada