Iran Fires Back at Donald Trump

By Amir Daftari

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has declared that Iran will not bow to U.S. pressure or negotiate under hostile conditions, accusing Washington of hypocrisy and "double standards."

"Trump cannot dictate orders to us and impose sanctions on us and then talk about negotiations," Pezeshkian said.

His remarks come as reports suggest Israel is considering strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, while President Donald Trump has reinstated his "maximum pressure" sanctions, even as he says he prefers diplomacy over military action.

Newsweek has reached out to the White House for comment via email.

Why It Matters

The escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, coupled with the potential for military action, could further destabilize the Middle East. The situation highlights the fragility of regional security and the risks of a broader conflict.

What to Know

Speaking at the Bushehr nuclear plant in Southern Iran on Thursday, Pezeshkian warned against potential Israeli strikes. "If you strike a hundred of those (nuclear facilities), we will build a thousand other ones. You can hit the buildings and places, but you cannot hit those who build them."

Iran's nuclear program has long been a flashpoint for international concern, and any attack on its facilities could provoke severe retaliation, potentially drawing in global powers.

Israel's Reported Plans

According to The Wall Street Journal, U.S. intelligence suggests Israel is considering significant strikes on Iranian nuclear sites this year. The reports cite Israel's belief that Trump is more likely to support such an attack than his predecessor, Joe Biden.

U.S. Position

President Trump has repeatedly stated his preference for a diplomatic resolution, saying, "I would prefer that not to happen," in reference to a potential Israeli strike. However, his administration has maintained a "maximum pressure" campaign of sanctions against Iran, which Tehran views as a barrier to negotiations.

A student looks at a model of Bushehr nuclear power plant in an exhibition of the country's nuclear achievements, in Tehran, Iran, Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023.

What People Are Saying

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian: "Iran will not submit to any threat and will not back down in the face of pressure. Whoever wants to negotiate with us must stop anti-Iranian policies. Trump cannot dictate orders to us and impose sanctions on us and then talk about negotiations."

U.S. President Donald Trump: "Everyone thinks Israel, with our help or our approval, will go in and bomb the hell out of them. I would prefer that not to happen. If we made the deal, Israel wouldn't bomb them."

Commander of Iran's Air Force Hamid Vahedi: "We tell all countries, friends and foes alike, that our country's doctrine is defensive, but we will respond with force against any enemy attack."

What Happens Next

The coming months could prove critical as Israel weighs the timing and scope of a potential strike on Iran's nuclear facilities. Meanwhile, Tehran has signaled it will not negotiate under pressure. As tensions rise, the international community will be closely watching for signs of escalation or breakthroughs in diplomatic efforts.

Amir Daftari is a Newsweek reporter based in London, specializing in global affairs with a focus on the Middle East. He joined Newsweek in 2024 from the United Nations and has previously worked at CNN International. A graduate of the London School of Economics, Amir has received multiple awards for his reporting, including his coverage of the Arab Spring and the 2021 Iranian elections. You can get in touch with Amir by emailing a.daftari@newsweek.com. Languages: English and Farsi