Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran does not seek or welcome war but will firmly resist any aggressor. He said no power can force a nation committed to resistance, using all its strength and determination, into surrender.

Pezeshkian said Iran would not bow to threats, citing diplomatic efforts, support from the Iranian people, the work of government officials and the sacrifices of armed forces commanders. He said Iran had demonstrated its refusal to yield to threats on many previous occasions.

Separately, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the Strait of Hormuz is closed and that any vessel can pass through it only with Iran’s permission. The source attributes the report to Middle East Eye.