Iran's president says some countries' have begun mediation efforts to end war

"Some countries have begun mediation efforts. Let's be clear: we are committed to lasting peace in the region yet we have no hesitation in defending our nation's dignity and sovereignty. Mediation should address those who underestimated the Iranian people and ignited this conflict."

"Pete Hegseth, the US defence secretary, said late on Thursday that firepower over Iran was about to surge dramatically, while the Israel Defense Forces announced a new and intensified phase of the campaign on Friday morning."

"At various points since the start of the war, Pezeshkian has said it is too late for Iran to negotiate. Overall, he has placed more emphasis on finding a new leadership for Iran in order to avoid a complete regime change, which is the preference of the Israelis."

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian confirmed that several countries have initiated mediation efforts to resolve the escalating conflict with the US and Israel, though he did not specify which nations. Qatar, Turkey, Egypt, and Oman have all offered mediation since joint US-Israeli strikes began last Saturday. Pezeshkian stated Iran remains committed to regional peace while defending its sovereignty and dignity, emphasizing that mediation must address those responsible for starting the war. Despite these diplomatic overtures, the US Defense Secretary announced increased military operations against Iran, and Israel declared a new intensified campaign phase. Iran's reformist groups have suggested appointing a new supreme leader to counter US propaganda and reduce domestic polarization.

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