Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has outlined terms for ending the war with the United States and Israel, calling for reparations and guarantees against future aggression.
The statement, posted on social site X, marks a rare shift in tone from Tehran, which has maintained a defiant stance since the war began 13 days ago. Pezeshkian said he had spoken to his counterparts in Russia and Pakistan, confirming Iran's commitment to peace.
The Iranian president's statement comes as pressure mounts on the US to halt the costly mission, with estimates suggesting the war has cost over $11.3 billion in the first six days. Analysts say Tehran is likely to determine the end of the war, given its ability to inflict economic pain on the region and the wider world.
Regional Context
The conflict has already had significant economic implications, with oil prices soaring above $100 per barrel. Iran has tightened its grip on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route, and has warned that it will not allow any oil to pass through the strait.
The International Energy Agency has agreed to release 400 million barrels from emergency reserves, but it is unclear what impact this will have. Iran has also been accused of directly attacking oil facilities in neighboring countries, including Iraq and Oman.
Official Statements
Pezeshkian's statement has been seen as a sign of de-escalation from Tehran, but analysts note that the Iranian leadership has sent conflicting messages. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has continued to show defiance, issuing threats and launching attacks on US and Israeli assets.
US President Trump has said the war will end "soon", but Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has stated that the war will continue "without any time limit, for as long as necessary". Analysts say Trump's stance reflects increasing pressure on his administration ahead of upcoming mid-term elections.
Source: Al Jazeera
