NEW DELHI — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on Friday that Tehran will not capitulate to the United States, delivering his remarks during a speech to religious leaders in the Indian capital. The declaration comes amidst heightened regional hostilities and coincides with Pezeshkian’s inaugural visit to India for the Brics Summit.
“Iran has successfully stood [against Israel and the U.S.],” Pezeshkian told the gathering. “Since we are seeking truth and justice, we will not yield in front of bullying arrogance.”
His comments followed assertions by U.S. President Donald Trump, who claimed on Thursday that Iran would have annihilated Israel and initiated attacks on American cities had Washington not undertaken military action against Tehran. Trump added that he would repeat those decisions if given the chance.
During a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pezeshkian discussed the ongoing conflict that began on February 28. Modi emphasized the critical importance of ensuring the safety of seafarers and maintaining freedom of navigation and commerce in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery separating Iran and Oman, has seen shipments of oil and other cargoes drop to a trickle since the onset of the war. This disruption has left numerous vessels and crews stranded for weeks or months.
The conflict has directly impacted India, the world’s third-largest oil consumer, which imports approximately 85% of its fuel needs. Indian officials confirmed that ten seafarers have died due to the Middle East tensions, including after two ships carrying a total of 30 Indian crew members were attacked in the strait in July.
Modi reiterated his appeal for resolving the Middle East crisis through “dialogue and diplomacy,” highlighting the vulnerability of major energy importers to supply chain shocks. Global crude oil prices have surged in response to the recent escalation between the U.S. and Iran.
Two diametrically opposed strategies at the same summit. Does anyone actually think diplomacy will work after Trump’s rhetoric?
Modi’s pragmatic focus on oil flows makes sense. India can’t afford to pick sides when its energy security is on the line.