- Pezeshkian says the U.S. memorandum is the best path out of the stalled war.
- Pezeshkian asserted that the agreement contains no capitulation, stating, “There is not a single provision in this agreement that amounts to capitulation,” in a speech published by state-run *IRNA* on Sunday (August 23).
- Pezeshkian defers to the supreme leader, saying, “The supreme leader sets the policies, and we will follow that path.”
- Pezeshkian linked the agreement to Iran's economic prospects, saying the country couldn't attract investment in this stalled phase.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has defended a recent U.S. memorandum of understanding, calling it the best path to resolve the ongoing conflict, which he described as a state of “neither war nor peace.”1
In a speech published by state-run *IRNA*, he stated, “There is not a single provision in this agreement that amounts to capitulation.” He emphasized that the supreme leader sets the policies, and the government will adhere to that direction.
The memorandum, signed by U.S. President Donald Trump in June, aimed to establish a 60-day deadline for concluding the war with Iran and reaching an agreement on its nuclear program. However, that deadline has passed without any signs of compromise, particularly regarding the critical issue of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, essential for global shipping.
Pezeshkian also highlighted the economic implications of the agreement, noting that Iran is unable to attract foreign investment during this stalled phase.
Nearly six months into the conflict with the United States and Israel, Iran's economy is severely impacted by sanctions and a naval blockade, further complicating the situation.
“Pezeshkian's remarks, published by state-run IRNA on Sunday, come as he links the agreement to Iran's economic prospects, saying the country couldn't attract investment in the stalled phase. He also deferred to the supreme leader, stating, 'The supreme leader sets the policies, and we will follow that path.'”
