President says US and Israel 'cannot impose unjust aspirations by force'

Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian stated on Tuesday that Israel and the U.S. "cannot impose unjust aspirations by force," as a fragile cease-fire between Iran and Israel came into effect after 12 days of war.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran was forced to enter the military conflict to defend itself, and I hope we will never have to fight again," Pezeshkian added during a phone call with the UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed, according to the official Iranian news agency Irna.

The Iranian president also stated that his country is not seeking to acquire nuclear weapons but will continue to defend its "legitimate rights" for its civilian nuclear program, as a ceasefire with Israel has come into effect.

"We expect you to explain to them, during your relations with the United States, that the Islamic Republic of Iran is only seeking to assert its legitimate rights," Pezeshkian said during a phone call with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed, according to the official Irna.

He also added that Iran was "ready to resolve disagreements [...] at the negotiating table."