Iran’s President Says Talks with US Necessary as Economic Strain Deepens

(MENAFN) Iran’s president Masoud Pezeshkian has defended ongoing negotiations with the United States, arguing that Iran is under significant economic strain and cannot sustain a state of permanent confrontation, according to reports.

He said the country is struggling to export oil due to external restrictions, noting, “They blocked the route, and we are not exporting oil either,” during a meeting, as stated by reports citing remarks carried by Iranian news agency.

“We cannot easily export oil,” he added.

Addressing critics who oppose dialogue with Washington, Pezeshkian pushed back against calls to abandon diplomacy.

“They chant that we should not negotiate. If we do not negotiate, then what should we do? Fight forever?” he said.

He also stressed that Iran would continue engaging in talks “with dignity” while still defending the rights of its citizens.

Beyond foreign policy, he pointed to domestic economic pressures, acknowledging that tax collection has become more difficult and that many businesses are under strain.

“We cannot say we have no problems,” he said, adding that damage to parts of Iran’s gas, electricity, and industrial infrastructure had worsened challenges during the conflict.

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