Iranian President Addresses US Public

Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, has written an open letter directly to the people of the United States, questioning whether the Trump administration’s actions regarding Iran truly embody the “America First” principle. The letter was posted on X late Wednesday, hours before President Donald Trump’s national address on the ongoing conflict.

Challenging the Rationale for War

“Exactly which of the American people’s interests are truly being served by this war?” Pezeshkian wrote in the letter. He further inquired, “Is ‘America First’ truly among the priorities of the US government today?”

Defense of Iran’s Actions

Pezeshkian asserted that Iran has historically not pursued aggression, expansionism, or colonialism. He stated that the perception of Iran as a threat is “the product of political and economic whims of the powerful.” He characterized Iran’s recent actions, including drone and missile strikes targeting infrastructure in the Gulf, as “legitimate self-defense.”

Leadership and Concerns

The extent of involvement from other Iranian leaders in drafting the letter remains unclear. Supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei has not been publicly seen or heard from since the start of the conflict over a month ago.

Distinction Between Government and People

Pezeshkian emphasized a distinction between the US government and its people, stating that Iranian people hold no animosity towards other nations, including the United States and Europe. He described this sentiment as a “deeply rooted principle in Iranian culture and collective consciousness.”

Trump’s Response and Warnings

In his subsequent national address, President Trump labeled the Iranian leadership as “the most violent and thuggish regime on Earth.” He warned that Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon would pose “an intolerable threat,” and claimed the conflict is “nearing completion” with significant damage to Iran’s military capabilities.

A Crossroads for Global Security

Pezeshkian concluded his letter by warning that the world stands at a critical juncture. He stated that “Continuing along the path of confrontation is more costly and futile than ever before.”