Pezeshkian Tells UN General Assembly Iran Is Ready for Talks and Defense

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, telling world leaders that Iran remains open to negotiations while stressing the country is fully prepared to defend itself against any aggression.

In his address, Pezeshkian framed Iran's position as one of dual readiness: willingness to engage diplomatically with other nations, alongside a firm commitment to respond to threats against its sovereignty. The remarks come amid ongoing tensions between Iran and Western powers, particularly the United States, over Tehran's nuclear program and broader regional security issues.

The speech was delivered as part of the general debate at the UN General Assembly's 81st session, which brings together heads of state and government in New York through the end of September. Pezeshkian's appearance follows years of strained relations between Iran and Western governments, punctuated by periods of both diplomatic engagement and military confrontation.

By emphasizing both openness to talks and defensive resolve, Pezeshkian's remarks appeared aimed at multiple audiences: signaling to Western governments that diplomatic channels remain available, while also warning against any assumption that Iran would not respond forcefully to perceived aggression.

The Iranian president's address did not detail specific proposals for renewed negotiations, and no immediate response from Western officials to the speech was reported.