In a speech before Parliament on Monday while defending his economic minister nominee, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated: "Iran has neither sought war nor initiated it - it is [the Israeli occupation] that has assassinated Iran's leaders and scientists."

Key Statements:

1. Call for National Unity

   • Urged Iranians to remain "united, cohesive, and steadfast against the criminal aggression targeting their nation."

   • Asserted: "The enemy cannot destroy Iran and its people through killings and terrorism."

2. Nuclear Policy Reaffirmation

   • Emphasized Iran "does not seek nuclear weapons", citing:

     • The country's "fixed principles and clear doctrine"

     • The Supreme Leader's fatwa (religious decree) prohibiting such weapons

   • Insisted on Iran's "inalienable right to peaceful nuclear energy", declaring:
     "No one can deprive us of this right."

3. Context of Escalating Tensions

   • The remarks follow large-scale Israeli attacks on Tehran and other Iranian cities since last Friday dawn.

   • Iran has responded with missile strikes, framing them as countermeasures.