Speaking at a meeting with media managers to mark National Journalists’ Day, Pezeshkian stressed the importance of holding on to principles, comparing them to the foundations of religious belief. He said differences in opinions are natural but unity must be preserved, noting that all foreign policy decisions and negotiations are coordinated with Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

“National cohesion is the foundation of our stability. If that is damaged, the country will suffer,” he said, recalling how even during the Iran-Iraq war, prisoners issued statements supporting the country’s defense.

Pezeshkian warned of a 45% drop in rainfall and shrinking reservoirs, calling the water shortage a “serious and undeniable crisis.” He criticized past mismanagement and said the government is working with universities, environmental activists and agencies to find solutions, including banning the watering of lawns in government facilities.

On the economy, Pezeshkian criticized fuel subsidy allocation, asking why people with multiple fuel cards should receive subsidized gasoline. He argued that priority must be given to securing people’s basic needs, possibly through ration cards.

He dismissed claims that surprise inspections of ministries were for show, saying they are aimed at operational reforms such as performance-based budgeting for 1405.

Pezeshkian linked the country’s main problems to injustice, poverty and inflation, and warned that unequal access to education drives inequality in jobs and living standards.

Addressing foreign pressure, Pezeshkian said Iran will not surrender but also will not achieve results through conflict alone. “If invited to peace, do not reject it,” he said, quoting Imam Ali.

He reiterated that no government action is taken without Leader’s consent, saying once the Leader’s position is clear, “we must speak in the interest of the nation and the people.”

Pezeshkian called on media and citizens to help address economic imbalances and ensure that no decision undermines the rights of the underprivileged.