Iranian President Pezeshkian calls for U.S. to end Middle East conflict

On Thursday, September 24, 2026, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated during an interview with Fox News that the United States bears the responsibility for deciding whether to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Speaking on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Pezeshkian asserted that Iran did not initiate the hostilities and stressed that his country does not seek a wider war.

The Iranian president’s comments followed a report from U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday, which confirmed that discussions had taken place between Iranian and American officials during the UN summit. Pezeshkian emphasized that while Tehran remains committed to self-defense, it is prepared to retaliate with force if it continues to face aggression. He further criticized U.S. economic pressures, describing them as an attempt to force Iran into capitulation.

While the diplomatic discourse continues, the situation remains tense. Pezeshkian's remarks suggest a push for U.S. policy shifts as the primary catalyst for de-escalation, though he maintained that Iran would respond firmly to any further attacks on its territory or sovereignty.