Tehran

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday declared that millions of Iranians are prepared to sacrifice their lives to defend the country, as tensions escalate ahead of a deadline set by US President Donald Trump.

In a post on X, Pezeshkian said, “Over 14 million proud Iranians have, up to this moment, declared their readiness to sacrifice their lives in defense of Iran. I too have been, am, and will be a sacrificer for Iran.”

The remarks come amid heightened tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, which Washington has urged Tehran to reopen as part of efforts to de-escalate the ongoing conflict.

Earlier, Iran’s Deputy Sports Minister Alireza Rahimi called on citizens—including athletes, artists, and students—to form “human chains” around power plants, describing them as vital national assets in the face of potential airstrikes.

The appeal follows a stern warning from Trump, who has set a deadline for Iran to comply with US demands, cautioning that failure to do so could result in strikes targeting critical infrastructure, including power plants and bridges.

Speaking at the White House, Trump described the situation as a “critical period,” stating that Tehran had been given time to negotiate but must act before the deadline.

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The developments underscore rising tensions in West Asia, with diplomatic efforts continuing alongside escalating rhetoric and military posturing.