Ankara: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared on Friday that the ongoing war with the United States should conclude while Iran holds a position of 'power and dignity,' as he defended the recent agreement between Tehran and Washington.

According to Anadolu Agency, Pezeshkian addressed an event where he hailed the outcome of the negotiations as a 'major achievement,' which has been endorsed by Iran's Supreme National Security Council. The Iranian presidency released a statement highlighting his remarks during the event.

Pezeshkian emphasized the significance of the agreement, describing it as 'honorable and valuable,' and dismissed criticisms suggesting that Tehran had made concessions. He confidently stated that there was no evidence of surrender in the agreement, asserting that all commitments are directed towards the opposing side.

He also clarified that the agreement does not imply that Tehran would capitulate in the event of further hostilities. Pezeshkian assured that Iran would not succumb to intimidation and vowed to respond forcefully if necessary.

The Iranian president advocated for the cessation of the war, arguing that the present conditions provide a suitable opportunity to do so. He criticized the US for violating international rules by targeting Iranian schools, hospitals, and infrastructure.

Pezeshkian reaffirmed the readiness of Iran's military commanders and armed forces to defend the nation while underscoring the need for domestic unity. The 14-point memorandum of understanding, signed by Iran and the US in Islamabad on June 18 under the mediation of Pakistan and Qatar, aims to end the war and initiate a 60-day negotiation period towards a final agreement.

Despite Tehran's accusations of Washington breaching the memorandum, Pakistan and Qatar continue their mediation efforts between the two nations.