Iran vows to resist US, Israeli 'bullying', Pezeshkian says

Speaking at a gathering of religious leaders, intellectuals and business figures in India on Friday, Pezeshkian outlined Iran's vision for regional stability while rejecting what he characterised as foreign interference. "We will not surrender to oppression. Iran is standing up to Israel and the US because we will not be bullied, and if they push us, we will push them back," the president said.

Pezeshkian's remarks come as hostilities in the region have intensified significantly. He accused US and Israeli forces of targeting civilian infrastructure, citing a military strike near a primary school in southern Iran that resulted in 168 child deaths. "They should take on our soldiers instead of targeting hospitals, infrastructure and livelihoods," he said, labelling American and Israeli forces as "real militants."

The Iranian leader emphasised his government's commitment to peaceful coexistence and regional cooperation while warning against external actors attempting to destabilise Iranian society. His statement represents a direct message to Washington and Tel Aviv at a time of heightened military tension across the Gulf region.