Iran's president tells Fox anchor the war was 'imposed on us'

Iran’s president has framed the country’s ongoing six-month conflict with the U.S. as a forced response, rejecting any claim of Iranian aggression while vowing a firm retaliation if hostilities persist. In a recent interview, he emphasized that Tehran did not initiate the confrontation and continues to avoid escalation, though the remarks signal a hardening stance amid prolonged tensions. The comments come as diplomatic and military pressures between the two nations remain unresolved, raising questions about potential next steps. The exchange offers rare insight into Iran’s official position on the standoff, blending defiance with a call for restraint.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Thursday that Tehran was forced into its now six-month-long conflict with the U.S. and warned that Iran will respond “strongly” if attacks continue. “We did not choose war, the war was imposed on us. We do not seek war,” Pezeshkian told Fox News host Bret Baier in an interview on...