Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian says US pressure and threats prevent successful peace talks

On Friday, October 9, 2026, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated at a summit in Turkmenistan that peace negotiations with the United States will only succeed without "pressure and threats." The comments come amid a seven-month conflict that began with US-Israeli strikes on Iran in February. Diplomatic efforts have been deadlocked since summer, despite a June memorandum of understanding. Pezeshkian also met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who pledged to help end the war. The US has recently reduced military operations but continues economic pressure, while Iran maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz.