Tehran (Web Desk) Iran’s President on Wednesday vowed that the Islamic Republic would not bow to foreign pressure or aggression, as the country marked the anniversary of its 1979 Islamic Revolution amid heightened regional tensions and growing fears of possible US military action.
Speaking during official ceremonies, President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran would firmly defend its sovereignty, independence, and national dignity, warning that external threats would only strengthen public resolve rather than weaken it.
His remarks came against the backdrop of escalating rhetoric from Washington and renewed speculation over potential strikes targeting Iran.
Meanwhile, protesters across several Iranian cities renewed anti-government chants from balconies and rooftops, defying an ongoing crackdown on dissent.
Rights groups claim that security forces have killed thousands during months of unrest, as authorities continue efforts to suppress opposition to the clerical system.
US President Donald Trump has not ruled out military action against Tehran, though he has linked any decision primarily to Iran’s nuclear programme rather than its treatment of protesters.
Trump’s administration has adopted a tough posture, emphasizing that all options remain on the table if diplomatic efforts fail.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a strong advocate of a hardline approach toward Iran, was scheduled to hold talks with Trump on Wednesday.
The discussions were expected to focus on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, regional security threats, and possible coordinated strategies.
On the diplomatic front, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkoff held indirect negotiations in Oman on Friday regarding Tehran’s nuclear programme.
While both sides described the talks as constructive, uncertainty remains over whether further rounds will take place, despite optimistic signals from Iranian officials.
In a parallel diplomatic effort, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council head Ali Larijani held meetings in Oman on Tuesday and Qatar on Wednesday.
These engagements form part of broader regional efforts to reduce tensions and prevent military escalation.
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani discussed de-escalation strategies and regional security during a phone call with President Trump on Wednesday.
Later, Sheikh Tamim also met Larijani in Doha, where both leaders stressed the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful conflict resolution.
Meanwhile, the United States continues to maintain a strong military presence in the region.
A large American naval group led by an aircraft carrier, described by Trump as an “armada,” remains deployed in Middle Eastern waters, serving as a clear warning to Tehran amid the rising tensions.
As diplomatic channels struggle to gain momentum, the standoff between Iran and the US appears to be entering a critical phase, with regional stability hanging in the balance and global powers watching closely.