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By Amir Daftari
News Reporter
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Iran displayed tanks, missiles, and troops in a major military parade on Friday, as President Masoud Pezeshkian declared the country's armed forces a foundation of "peace, stability, and regional cooperation."
The show of force comes before the next round of critical talks between Iran and the United States over Tehran's nuclear program.
Newsweek has reached out to Iran's foreign ministry and the State Department for comment.
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Why It Matters
With high-stakes negotiations approaching, Iran's leadership is sending a dual message: it remains open to diplomacy, but is fully prepared for confrontation. The parade and accompanying rhetoric highlight how central the military remains to Iran's national posture, especially as the U.S. continues to build up its military presence in the Middle East.
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What to Know
President Pezeshkian said Iran's army allows the nation to confidently advocate for "peace, stability, and regional cooperation," according to state media. Speaking during Iran's annual Army Day, he added that Iranians now produce much of their own military equipment and declared, "We build what we need on land, in the air, and at sea." Describing the armed forces as a "reliable force," Pezeshkian credited the military with helping Iran manage domestic crises and enhance its regional stature.
Iran FM in Moscow
Elsewhere, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Tehran will assess the future of its talks with the U.S. based on Washington's behavior in the upcoming round, warning against contradictory messages and emphasizing that only official communications through mediators at the negotiating table would be taken seriously.
Speaking in Moscow, Araghchi said Iran had "clearly and firmly" outlined its position and was approaching the negotiations with "complete seriousness."
U.S. Pressure Looms
President Donald Trump has warned of strikes if Iran fails to reach a nuclear deal. On Thursday, he responded to reports that he discouraged an Israeli strike on Iran's nuclear infrastructure, stating, "I wouldn't say waved off. I'm not in a rush to do it," while adding that Iran still has a chance "to live happily without death."
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What People Are Saying
Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian said: "With the army behind us, we can express our positions on peace, stability, and regional cooperation from a position of strength."
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated: "In these talks, our stance is clear and we have expressed it clearly and firmly to the other side. Our remarks haven't changed and will not change; and we don't speak in different ways every day. We expect the other parties to be present in the talks with complete seriousness."
U.S. President Donald Trump told reporters: "I think that Iran has a chance to have a great country and to live happily without death."
What Happens Next
As the U.S. and Iran prepare for the second round of nuclear talks in Rome, Tehran appears determined to balance diplomacy with a visible show of deterrent power.
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