Tucker Carlson sat down with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for a wide-ranging interview covering Iran’s nuclear program, relations with the United States and Israel, regional security, and prospects for peace.
On Ending the U.S.-Iran Conflict
- Pezeshkian stated Iran did not initiate the conflict and does not wish for it to continue. His administration’s motto is national unity and fostering peaceful relations with neighbors and the world[1].
- He emphasized Iran’s desire for peace and blamed external actors, particularly Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for perpetuating unrest in the region[1].
Nuclear Program and International Oversight
- Pezeshkian denied that Iran seeks nuclear weapons, citing a religious decree (fatwa) from the Supreme Leader forbidding nuclear arms[1].
- He claimed Iran’s nuclear activities have always been under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) supervision, but recent attacks on nuclear facilities disrupted this cooperation[1].
- The president expressed willingness to resume talks and allow verification, but cited damaged facilities and mistrust following attacks as obstacles[1].
Allegations of IAEA Spying
- Pezeshkian acknowledged Iranian suspicions that IAEA inspections may have leaked information to Israel, but said this did not stop Iran from allowing inspections. He criticized the IAEA for failing to condemn attacks on Iranian facilities, which he argued undermined trust[1].
Diplomacy and Conditions for Negotiations
- He expressed openness to renewed diplomacy with the U.S., provided that Iran’s rights under international law are respected[1].
- Pezeshkian blamed Netanyahu for derailing previous negotiations and insisted that peace is possible if external interference ceases[1].
- He raised concerns about trusting the U.S. in future talks, fearing further attacks during negotiations[1].
Assassination Attempts and Security
- Pezeshkian claimed Israel attempted to assassinate him, but the attempt failed. He said Iranian officials are not afraid of sacrificing themselves for their country, but questioned whether such violence brings regional stability[1].
Iran’s Stance Toward the U.S. and Americans
- He argued that the “Death to America” slogan is misunderstood, stating it targets U.S. policies and actions, not its people. He stressed that Iran has not attacked Americans and accused U.S. leaders of creating negative perceptions of Iran[1].
- Pezeshkian denied that Iran has ever tried to assassinate Donald Trump or that there are Iranian sleeper cells in the U.S., dismissing such claims as Israeli propaganda[1].
Iran-Israel Relations
- The president attributed the breakdown in Iran-Israel relations to Israeli actions in Gaza and the broader region. He denied that Iran ever received weapons from Israel and framed Iran’s military posture as defensive[1].
Sanctions and Economic Relations
- Pezeshkian said there are no Iranian restrictions on U.S. investment in Iran, and that sanctions are the main barrier to economic engagement. He reiterated that Iran seeks peaceful, mutually beneficial relations[1].
Potential for Alliances in Case of War
- He stated Iran relies on its own capabilities and trust in God for defense, but did not directly address whether Iran would seek Russian or Chinese assistance if war breaks out[1].
Final Message
- Pezeshkian concluded by urging the U.S. not to be drawn into “Netanyahu’s war,” advocating for peace and stability in the region, and expressing hope for a future where diplomacy prevails[1].
This summary captures the main points and tone of the interview, providing a clear overview for readers unfamiliar with the original video[1].
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