Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian told Indian officials on Saturday he will not surrender to the United States or Israel.

Pezeshkian's Defiant Statement

Speaking to a mixed delegation in New Delhi, the newly‑elected head of state rejected what he described as "unjust" attempts by Washington and Jerusalem to dictate Iran's foreign policy. He said Tehran would continue to pursue its own strategic interests, even as the United States escalates military aid to Israel.

The comments came during Pezeshkian's first official visit to India, a trip meant to deepen economic ties and explore cooperation on energy and technology.

India Calls for Dialogue

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, meeting Pezeshkian on the same day, urged both Tehran and the United States to return to diplomatic channels. Modi said India remained "firmly committed" to a peaceful resolution of the regional dispute and urged all parties to "avoid actions that could inflame tensions".

India's foreign ministry released a statement echoing the prime minister, noting that New Delhi supports a two‑state solution for the Israeli‑Palestinian conflict and encourages regional powers to engage in constructive dialogue.

Regional Implications

The exchange underscores a widening rift between Iran and the United States, which have been at odds since the 1979 revolution and have seen renewed hostility after the U.S. lifted sanctions in 2024. Tehran has also condemned Israel's recent air strikes in the Gaza Strip, accusing the Israeli defence forces of "collective punishment".

Analysts note that Pezeshkian's stance mirrors that of his predecessor, who similarly resisted U.S. pressure during the 2022 nuclear talks. However, the current administration faces a more volatile environment, with the United States recently approving a $3.5 billion weapons package for Israel.

India's diplomatic overture may be aimed at balancing its strategic partnership with the United States against its longstanding ties with Iran, particularly in the energy sector. Tehran supplies roughly 10 percent of India's crude imports, and New Delhi has sought to expand Iranian‑origin liquefied natural gas projects.

Observers warn that Pezeshkian's refusal to "surrender" could harden Tehran's posture in any future nuclear negotiations, potentially prompting a new round of sanctions. At the same time, Modi's call for dialogue may open a back‑channel for de‑escalation, though concrete steps have yet to materialise.

The next diplomatic milestone is expected at the forthcoming BRICS summit in Johannesburg, where Iran will seek to rally support from Russia, China and Brazil for a more multipolar approach to Middle‑East security.