Masoud Pezeshkian: We seek an agreement; continuing the war serves no one

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on Monday that Tehran remains committed to reaching an agreement to end the conflict, emphasizing that continuing the war serves neither Iran nor the countries of the region. Highlighting the necessity of dialogue and cooperation, he claimed that Iran has adhered to its previous commitments while the American side has failed to fulfill its obligations. Before departing for Kyrgyzstan, Pezeshkian asserted that while Iran does not seek war, it will respond decisively to any aggression.

These remarks come as tensions between Iran and the United States have reached their highest level in a month. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that its forces struck two IRGC missile launchers on Larak Island. According to the U.S. version, Iranian forces were preparing to launch missiles carrying naval mines to be placed in international shipping lanes. In response to the strike, the IRGC fired ballistic missiles at bases housing U.S. forces in Jordan.

Simultaneously, reports emerged that the United Arab Emirates intercepted an Iranian drone. The IRGC also claimed that a tanker in the Strait of Hormuz caught fire after striking two naval mines. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump posted a video on social media appearing to show Kharg Island, Iran's main oil export hub, on fire, though he provided no further details.

On the economic front, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the administration plans to impose new secondary sanctions weekly on entities conducting business with Iran. The first phase will target banks assisting Tehran in bypassing international financial restrictions. These developments have led to a rise in oil prices and declines in most Gulf stock exchanges.