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Hassan Rouhani: In His Own Words

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani’s statements consistently expose as fraudulent the persistent claims that he is a “moderate.” Rouhani’s words demonstrate his commitment to Iran’s Islamic revolutionary regime and unapologetic advocacy for its illicit nuclear and ballistic missile pursuits, theocratic ideology, support for terrorism and regional dominance, repression of human rights, and enmity toward the U.S. and Israel. See Rouhani “in his own words” to understand the myth of his “moderation.”

Do you know what the Geneva agreement means? It means the surrender of the big powers before the great Iranian nation. The Geneva agreement means the wall of sanctions has broken

Nuclear program

"You were afraid of IR1 centrifuges, today we unveiled IR6, and if you continue to walk down this road, you will see cascades of IR8 in the near future."

April 9, 2019 at a ceremony marking 13th National Day of Nuclear Technology in Iran
“One of the 5+1 members (USA) violated all its commitments and proved that it is not trustworthy. Therefore, we tell the remaining members that they have to focus on their responsibilities. We have waited and will continue to do so, but our patience has a threshold that if reached, the Iranian government and state may take steps, so think about that day."

April 9, 2019 at a ceremony marking 13th National Day of Nuclear Technology in Iran
“The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is very unlikely to accept America’s demand to inspect our military sites.”

August 29, 2017, in a televised interview
"The new US administration officials should know that the failed experience of threats and sanctions forced their predecessors to come to the negotiating table. If they prefer to return to those times, Iran will definitely return to a situation much more advanced than the start of the [nuclear] negotiations, not within months and weeks, but in a matter of hours and days. … The JCPOA is not and will not be the only option for the country.”

August 12, 2017, in a televised speech at the Parliament’s opening session
"Repeated breaches of commitments by the US administration ... can be destructive. … The world should know that any breach of the deal will face a unified reaction of the Iranian nation and government.

August 5, 2017, in a meeting with EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini before his inauguration
"Considering that the US administration has ignored and delayed compliance with its undertakings under the JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action), and given the recent extension of the Iran Sanctions Act (ISA) that had already been declared as a violation of the nuclear deal by the Islamic Republic of Iran..., the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) is ordered to develop the country's peaceful nuclear program within the framework of the Islamic Republic of Iran's international undertakings as defined in the following missions." First, the AEOI is required "to plan for designing and building propulsion systems to be used in marine transportation in cooperation with scientific and research centers."

December 13, 2016, in a letter to AEOI head Ali Akbar Salehi ordering Iran to begin building nuclear powered vessels in retaliation for alleged U.S. violations of the JCPOA. Rouhani’s declaration that the Iran Sanction Act (ISA) extension violates the JCPOA is cynical and without merit. In actuality, the extension of ISA in no way violated the letter or spirit of the JCPOA, as it did not impose any new nuclear-related sanctions against Iran. The ISA extension merely ensures that the nuclear-related sanctions architecture, which remains suspended under the JCPOA, is kept in place and can be “snapped-back” in the event of an Iranian violation of the nuclear agreement.
“We believe that Congress’s latest legislation contradicts the JCPOA and is a violation of it. The president of America is therefore obligated to use his powers to prevent the approval and especially the implementation of [the ISA]…If this legislation is implemented, it would be an egregious violation of the JCPOA, and it will be followed by a decisive response from us. We consider the president even signing this legislation to be counter to America’s commitments.”

December 4, 2016, Speech to Parliament
“Iran’s understanding of the JCPOA is that the deal is not an agreement with just one country or administration. Rather it was strengthened as a UNSC resolution, and it cannot be changed with the decision of a single administration.”

November 9, 2016, Rouhani reacts to Donald Trump’s Victory
“If America had implemented the JCPOA precisely and with good will, perhaps we could have trusted them and been agreeable to negotiating on other subjects with them.”

August 2, 2016, Interview
“We always keep our word. But if they want to breach their commitment, our nuclear capabilities are such that we can reach the level we want in a short period of time.”

July 15, 2016, in a televised interview warning of Iran’s ability to quickly restart its illicit nuclear program
“We do not need to trust a country like America because of the JCPOA… If they break their promises during the JCPOA’s implementation, there are mechanisms within the JCPOA through which we can pursue the issue. If the Americans take actions in other areas, they will receive a reciprocal response.”

January 17, 2016, during a speech to Parliament and press conference
“Negotiating parties know that sanctions and pressure on Iran is futile. The centrifuges will never stop and the [conditions] of the people will get better.”

November 25, 2014 in a televised interview
“We halted the nuclear program? We were the ones to complete it! We completed the technology. … We were the first to initiate this. By ‘we,’ I mean the whole government, not Hassan Rouhani. By we, I mean the supreme leader. We were all hand in hand. That is why the supreme leader in his speech of November 11, 2003, said that in those negotiations, the conspiracy of Washington and Israel was shattered.”

May 27, 2013, in an election campaign interview, refuting an allegation that Rouhani suspended Iran’s nuclear program during his tenure as lead nuclear negotiator.
"Our red line is our scientific development and research on nuclear fields and Iran will by no means negotiate its defense potential, including its missile program."

August 31, 2014 remarks in a meeting with Finnish Foreign Minister
"In the context of R&D and peaceful nuclear technology, we will not accept any limitations... Not under any circumstances" would Iran destroy any of its existing centrifuges.

January 22, 2014, interview with with CNN
"Do you know what the Geneva agreement means? It means the surrender of the big powers before the great Iranian nation. The Geneva agreement means the wall of sanctions has broken... It means an admission by the world of Iran's peaceful nuclear program." Boasting about the regime's victory in the Geneva agreement, only two days after the P5+1 and Iran had come to terms on how to implement the accord.

January 14, 2014 speech
"One hundred per cent [no]." in response to an interview question about dismantling nuclear facilities.

November 29, 2013, interview
"No matter what interpretations are given, Iran's right to enrichment has been recognized." following agreement between Iran and the P5+1 on an interim nuclear deal

November 24, 2013 declaration
"Our government will not give up one iota of its absolute rights" on the nuclear issue.

September 10, 2013 speech
"All should know that the next government will not budge from defending our inalienable rights... We have passed that period. We are now in a different situation." emphasizing that, unlike in 2004, his government has no plans to suspend uranium enrichment as required by multiple, binding UN Security Council Resolutions

June 17, 2013 news conference as President-elect
"We completed the [uranium enrichment] program." boasting about how, during his tenure as chief nuclear negotiator in 2004, Iran did not suspend uranium enrichment; on the contrary, this was the period when the program was completed

June 2013 comments during election campaign
“Any resolution which seeks to bind us to suspension [of uranium enrichment] is unacceptable and we will not accept such an obligation.”

September 19, 2004 statement to the Iranian newspaper Kayhan, as Supreme National Security Council Secretary
“We will go ahead with confidence-building and will endeavor to build up our [nuclear] technical capability to restore our national rights in the context of the international conventions. This is our diplomacy: to proceed [in] both directions simultaneously.”

September 19, 2004 statement, aforementioned
"We only agreed to suspend activities in those areas where we did not have technical problems. This is what they are saying now in their negotiations. We completed the Isfahan project, which is the UCF where yellowcake is converted into UF4 and UF6 during suspension. While we were talking with the Europeans in Tehran, we were installing equipment in parts of the facility in Isfahan, but we still had a long way to go to complete the project. In fact, by creating a calm environment, we were able to complete the work in Isfahan. Today, we can convert yellowcake into UF4 and UF6, and this is a very important matter. In fact, UF6 is what the centrifuges feed on; it is the feed material for centrifuges. Therefore, it was important for us to conclude that process." touting Iran's nuclear progress during Iran's temporary suspension of enrichment activities

September 19, 2004 statement, aforementioned
"I think we should not be in a great rush to deal with this issue. We should be patient and find the most suitable time to do away with the suspension. If we decide to start enrichment in the face of opposition by the West, we must find the best time and the most favorable conditions, and if we decide to work with the West, we must utilize all our capabilities and everything that is in our power to achieve our objectives. We should not rush into this. We must move very carefully, in a very calculated manner." discussing Iran's strategy for advancing its nuclear program against the opposition of the international community

2004 speech, aforementioned
"One of the members indicated here that all this should have been done in secret. This was the intention; this never was supposed to be in the open. But in any case, the spies exposed it. We did not want to declare all this."

2004 speech, aforementioned
"If one day we are able to complete the fuel cycle and the world sees that it has no choice, that we do possess the technology, then the situation will be different. The world did not want Pakistan to have an atomic bomb or Brazil to have the fuel cycle, but Pakistan built its bomb and Brazil has its fuel cycle, and the world started to work with them. Our problem is that we have not achieved either one, but we are standing at the threshold."

2004 speech entitled "Beyond the Challenges Facing Iran and the IAEA Concerning the Nuclear Dossier,"

Iran will ask no soul’s permission to build missiles.

Ballistic Missiles

"If you want to limit Iran’s military power, you know that we have developed missiles since last year that you wouldn’t even imagine.”

April 9, 2019 at a ceremony marking 13th National Day of Nuclear Technology in Iran
“We have not asked and will not ask for permission to develop different types of ... missiles and will continue our path and our military power."

February 11, 2019 speech at Tehran’s Azadi Square celebrating 40th anniversary of Iran’s Islamic Revolution
“We will build, produce and store any weapon of any kind we need to defend ourselves, our territorial integrity and our nation, and we will not hesitate about it.”

October 29, 2017 in a televised speech
"The remarks by the enemies of the Iranian nation against Iran's missile power are out of ignorance. … We need missiles and the enemy should know that we make everything we need and we don’t pay an iota of attention to your words."

May 24, 2017, addressing a Cabinet meeting
"The Iranian nation has decided to be powerful. Our missiles are for peace and for defense...American officials should know that whenever we need to technically test a missile, we will do so and will not wait for their permission."

May 22, 2017, during a press conference. President Rouhani is expressing his support for Iran’s continued defiance of U.N. Security Council Resolution 2231, the resolution which implemented the JCPOA. The resolution “calls upon” Iran not to test any ballistic missiles “designed to be nuclear capable.”
“Iran will ask no soul’s permission to build missiles.”

April 15, 2017, at a ceremony to unveil new domestically-produced weaponry
“In response to new US #sanctions planned against Iran's ballistic missile program, have ordered the Defense Minister to expedite the program … We have never negotiated regarding our defense capabilities including our missile program & will not accept any restrictions in this regard …If US continues its illegitimate interference w/ Iran's right to defend itself a new program will be devised to enhance missile capabilities."

December 31, 2015, in a series of tweets responding to announcement of U.S. sanctions targeting Iran’s illicit ballistic missile program

We will spare no effort to defend the Islamic Revolution.

Defense of the Islamic Revolution - Khomeinism

Our nation will deal with this minority who chant slogans against the law and people’s wishes, and insult the sanctities and values of the revolution.”

January 1, 2018, threatening reprisals against protestors demonstrating against Iran’s revolutionary system
“We are Muslim and revolutionary Iranians. We neither idolize nor fear outsiders and will use constructive interaction with the world to advance public and national interests."

January 30, 2017, at a speech in Tehran at Ayatollah Khomeini’s mausoleum
“We will spare no effort to defend the Islamic Revolution and maintain its evolutionary path....All the three branches of the government act in unison under the guidance of Ayatollah Khamenei. There is no gap between the branches and the leadership. Adversaries of Iran will never see the day when such a gap happens....We should preserve his [Ayatollah Khomeini's] precious legacies.”

June 5, 2016, in a speech on the anniversary of Ayatollah Khomeini’s death
“All of what we have, are due to the Islamic Revolution, the Ten Days of Dawn, and endeavors by the Iranian nation, led by Imam Khomeini, which brought us dignity, freedom, independence, Islamic ethics, and the Islamic Republic.”

February 1, 2016, after meeting the heads of other government branches
“Imam [Khomeini] taught us the path of moderation, progress and development. An imam that at various points stood up to arrogance and the enemy and taught us anti-arrogance and had the courage to, when necessary, choose the path of peace and continue the path of stability and development for the country.”

January 29, 2015, at a speech commemorating Ayatollah Khomeini’s return to Iran from exile

Saying 'Death to America' is easy. We need to express 'Death to America' with action.

The United States

“If the United States wants to negotiate, it must lift the sanctions in their entirety before anything. We can’t talk to a criminal.”

August 6, 2019 during a visit to Iran’s Foreign Ministry
“Peace with Iran is the mother of all peace, war with Iran is the mother of all wars. You (Americans) cannot harm our security and expect security for yourself in return.”

August 6, 2019 during a visit to Iran’s Foreign Ministry
"The power of our armed forces is the power of the region’s countries, the Islamic world. … If we have a problem in the region today, its roots are either with Zionism or America's arrogance."

April 18, 2019 speech at an Army Day parade
“Mr Trump, don’t play with the lion’s tail, this would only lead to regret. America should know that peace with Iran is the mother of all peace, and war with Iran is the mother of all wars.”

July 22, 2018 addressing a gathering of Iranian diplomats
“In our region, we have witnessed different crimes and acts of aggression by regional countries and sometimes by big powers and the US.”

April 15, 2017, at a ceremony to unveil new domestically-produced weaponry
"America... is our enemy, we have no doubt about this. The Americans want to put as much pressure on us as they can."

December 6, 2016, in a speech to students at Tehran University
“He may want many things. He may want to weaken or rip up the JCPOA. Would we or the Iranian nation permit it? America cannot influence our will or our path of resistance and endurance.”

December 6, 2016 – President Rouhani warned President elect Donald Trump against ripping up the nuclear deal
“At the UN, a head of state asked me which of the two canidates [Trump or Clinton] would be better. I said that I would prefer not to choose between bad or worse. Look at how they talk, the way they accuse each other, and the way they mock each other!”

October 24, 2016, Rouhani commented on the U.S. president elections
“Optimism [towards] the agreement does not mean optimism [towards] the U.S. government.”

August 14, 2016, speech
“Today, anti-Islam, anti-Iran and anti-Shiism are the definitive policies of America and the governments who are affiliated with it.”

May 5, 2016, speech on occasion of Ascension in Tehran
"The world of hegemony and arrogance is seeking to undermine Islam and dominate Muslim lands."

January 7, 2015 speech addressing the opening of the 28th International Islamic unity conference in Tehran
"Iran believes that the US and the West are always seeking a pretext to confront with those countries, which are not friendly in their view."

August 4, 2013 remarks during a meeting with a senior North Korean official
“Saying 'Death to America' is easy. We need to express 'Death to America' with action. Saying it is easy.”

May 8, 2013 remarks at a campaign speech in the city of Karaj
"Iran is a victim of terrorism, and the terrorist groups who have fought against our people are being supported by the United States of America."

September 12, 2002 ABC interview, responding to a question about the possibility of ABC visiting a terrorist training camp in Tehran
"Generally speaking, America is not keen on independent countries. America is not keen on people's freedom. America is keen on countries that completely surrender themselves and act according to America's demands."

September 12, 2002 ABC interview, responding to a question about why Rouhani thinks the U.S. views Iran as an enemy
"The beautiful cry of 'Death to America' unites our nation."

May 1995 remarks to a group of pro-regime students

At dusk yesterday we received a decisive revolutionary order to crush mercilessly and monumentally any move of these opportunist elements wherever it may occur.

Human rights

"Most executions in Iran are related to drug trafficking crimes, due to the long and porous border shared with our Afghan neighbour. If we abolish the death penalty, we would make it easier for drugs to be trafficked to European countries, and that would be dangerous for you."

November 13, 2015, in an interview with an Italian daily
"I do not believe that an individual would be detained or put in prison for being a journalist." in response to a question from CNN's Christiane Amanpour, inquiring whether there is a reason for the imprisonment of Washington Post journalist Jason Rezaian. In an open letter to Rouhani, Iranian journalists said they are persecuted.

September 26, 2014 CNN interview
"God willing, Journalists Day is a happy day for all of the journalists, and the journalists can do completely professional and national work."

August 7, 2014 comments in advance of National Journalists' Day in Iran. Iran is one of the world's leading jailers of journalists.
“When someone is condemned to death and he comes to the gallows according to the law, then we have no right to insult him as he is being taken to the gallows… in any case, the law has condemned him and he is punished and this has nothing to do with us. It is either the commandment of God or a law approved by the parliament that belongs to the people and we only execute it.”

April 19, 2014, speaking before commanders of Iran’s State Security Services in defense of the legitimacy of executions carried out by the Iranian regime
"The people did not come to streets for any particular political side. The people came to the streets to defend Islam... because they felt that the culture of Ashura was insulted and the foreigners had created the setting for an intervention."

December 30, 2013 remarks celebrating the 2009 anniversary of state-sponsored rallies and the defeat of the reformist Green Movement
“[There is] not one person in prison in Iran except when there is a judgment by a judge following a trial.”

January 2004 comments defending Iran’s human rights record on a visit to France
"At dusk yesterday we received a decisive revolutionary order to crush mercilessly and monumentally any move of these opportunist elements wherever it may occur. From today our people shall witness how in the arena our law enforcement force... shall deal with these opportunists and riotous elements, if they simply dare to show their faces." denouncing Iranian university students staging pro-democracy protests as “enemies of the state” – a charge that carried the threat of execution

July 1999 speech at pro-regime rally

Syria has constantly been on the front line of fighting Zionism and this resistance must not be weakened.

Syria Conflict

“The Islamic Republic of Iran, just like in the past, will stand by the Syrian nation and government.”

February 26, 2019 meeting with Bashar al-Assad
“The Americans are against the Syrian government establishing its authority throughout the whole country and are even thinking of a breakup [of the country]. … There’s interference from Zionist forces in Syria which has increased problems. They don’t respect Syrian national sovereignty. They bomb areas in Syria. They support terrorists. These are all issues which have increased Syria’s problems.”

April 3, 2018 ahead of a summit with Russia and Turkey on Syria
“The nation of Iran will remain alongside the Syrian nation in fighting terrorism and safeguarding Syria’s territorial integrity. … Greater coordination between Iran, Syria and Russia can be very effective in the fight against terrorism. Those who think that by supporting terrorists, they can change Syria’s future in their interest, are absolutely wrong.”

April 9, 2017, in a statement on his website detailing a phone call to offer support to Syrian President Bashar Assad after the U.S. struck Syrian military targets following an alleged chemical weapons attack perpetrated by the Assad regime.
“Terrorists must not be allowed to use such weapons to accuse others and pave the way for actions that are contrary to international law.”

April 9, 2017, alleging a false-flag conspiracy by terrorist groups in Syria to carry out a chemical weapons attack and frame the Assad regime
“If we all agree that the biggest problem in Syria is terrorists, it will be easier to find a solution since for the fight against terrorism; we will have no choice but to strengthen the central government there…The problem with Syria is that some countries have misunderstood the priorities and the Islamic Republic of Iran [views] the terrorist acts in Syria as a major regional issue…and Iran is ready is ready to cooperate in the case of reaching an agreement.”

September 28, 2015, at a meeting with President of the European Council Donald Tusk
“The Middle East region has faced numerous crises including terrorism and drought, which have displaced thousands of innocent people and left millions insecure… Efforts in fighting terrorism should be harmonized, putting an end to interventions and actions by some countries, particularly in Yemen and Syria.”

September 26, 2015, in a meeting with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon
"Look, in a county where a large segment of the country has been occupied by terrorists, and there is bloodshed inside the country, millions of people have been displaced, how is it possible that we fight the terrorists of this country without supporting and helping the government of that country? How can we fight the terrorists without the government staying?"

September 20, 2015, in an interview with CBS’s “60 Minutes” defending Iran’s decision to back the Assad regime
"The Iranian nation and government will remain at the side of the Syrian nation and government until the end of the road."

June 2, 2015 meeting with Syria's parliament speaker
"The Islamic Republic of Iran aims to strengthen its relations with Syria and will stand by it in facing all challenges. The deep, strategic and historic relations between the people of Syria and Iran... will not be shaken by any force in the world."

August 4, 2013 remarks during a meeting with Syrian Prime Minister Wael al-Halqi
"[Close Iranian-Syrian ties will be able to confront] enemies in the region, especially the Zionist regime."

July 2013 message to Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad
“There is a human tragedy going on in Syria and all must do their utmost to put an end to this travesty. But facts cannot be overlooked. Syria has remained the only country in the region to resist Israeli expansionist policies and practices.”

June 2013 response to a pre-election interview question about his policy towards the conflict in Syria
"Syria has constantly been on the front line of fighting Zionism and this resistance must not be weakened."

January 2013 remarks

If your definition of terrorist groups are Hezbollah and Hamas, they are not terrorists. They are the kinds of groups who are fighting for the freedom of land.

Support for Iran-backed Terrorism and Regional Meddling

"Insulting the Revolutionary Guards is an insult to all [Iranian] armed forces, and an insult to Iranian great nation.”

April 18, 2019 at a speech during an Army Day parade
“If someday, the United States decides to block Iran’s oil [exports], no oil will be exported from the Persian Gulf.”

December 4, 2018 in a televised interview with Iranian state TV
The Revolutionary Guard is not just a military unit, but it has a place in the hearts of the Iranian people and has defended our national interests in times of threats to the country. The Revolutionary Guards are not only popular among the people of Iran, but also among the Iraqi people because they saved Baghdad. It is also popular with the Iraqi Kurds, because they saved Erbil. It is also popular with the people of Damascus and Syria, because they saved Damascus. It is popular among the Lebanese people because it has been a supporter of the dignity and independence of Lebanon; the IRGC has always aided the oppressed and stood up against terrorists".

October 11, 2017, during a cabinet meeting
“Hezbollah are a part of the Lebanese people and are incredibly loved in this country. Their weapons are only defensive and are only for use in the face of a potential attack.”

November 21, 2017, in a phone call to French President Emmanuel Macron
"Who fought against the terrorists? It was Iran, Syria, Hezbollah and Russia. But who funded the terrorists? Those who fund terrorists cannot claim they are fighting against them."

May 22, 2017, in a press conference, insinuating that the U.S. and Saudi Arabia are the true backers of terrorism in the Middle East
“We are proud of our armed forces, the Revolutionary Guards, the Basij and the security forces, we consider their strength as a guarantee for peace and stability in the region, the security and the well-being of our people.”

May 21, 2017, in a speech celebrating his electoral victory
"We will purchase weapons from wherever we deem necessary and we are not waiting for anyone's permission; if we deem necessary we will sell our weapons and we will do this without paying attention to any resolution.”

August 22, 2015, addressing a ceremony held to commemorate the National Defense Industry Day in Iran
“Today if we look at eastern Iran, throughout Iran and throughout Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine we witness the hallmarks of [IRGC Quds Force Commander] General Soleimani’s courage and fearlessness. … The IRGC has always been a pioneer for solving the crises of the country. Today the IRGC is not only responsible for the country’s security, but also for the security of the countries’ that need Iran’s help, and it is courageously present in all those scenes.”

May 10, 2016, addressing a rally to mark Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Day
“No doubt, your tireless and dedicated efforts and those of Hezbollah warriors on the scene of resistance promise the decisive victory of the resistant Lebanese and Palestinian nations over the Zionist regime, which has always been supported by the Islamic Republic.”

July 24, 2013, responding to Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah’s congratulatory letter following Rouhani’s electoral victory
"If your definition of terrorist groups are Hezbollah and Hamas, they are not terrorists. They are the kinds of groups who are fighting for the freedom of land."

September 12, 2002 ABC interview, responding to questions about Iran’s support for terrorist groups

[Israel is] the great Zionist Satan.

Israel and Zionism

"Zionism ... has been committing crimes in the region for the past 70 years. …The final victory will surely be with the righteous."

April 18, 2019 speech at an Army Day parade
“One of the negative results of World War II was the formation of a cancerous tumor in the region.”

November 24, 2018 at an Islamic Unity Conference
“The oppressed people of Palestine and Islamic ummah (community) will undoubtedly defeat the US-Israeli plan with their unity and resistance.”

December 12, 2017 speaking to Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh
“The message of Quds Day is that of hatred towards the occupying and usurping regime (Israel) as well as support for the oppressed nation of Palestine.”

June 23, 2017, remarks during Tehran’s annual Quds Day rally
“Powers’ intervention and the cancerous tumor of Israel” have always been a source of concern and insecurity in the Middle East.

April 15, 2017, at a ceremony to unveil new domestically-produced weaponry.
“The Iranian nation has paid a heavy price for supporting the Palestinian nation and opposition to the Zionist regime’s actions but it will continue its support with resolve and determination.”

February 22, 2017, at an international conference in Tehran on the Palestinian issue
“The Zionist regime seeks to devise and exploit the ongoing developments in the Middle East, particularly the emergence and spread of terrorist and extremist groups such as Daesh to overshadow its crimes against the oppressed Palestinian nation and others regional nations.”

September 17, 2016, speaking at the opening ceremony of the 17th NAM summit
"The Zionist regime (Israel) is a regional base for America and the global arrogance ... Disunity and discord among Muslim and terrorist groups in the region ... have diverted us from the important issue of Palestine."

July 1, 2016, during a rally making the international al-Quds day
“By behind-the-scene attempts, terror, and creating conflicts among the regional and Muslim world countries and Muslim against Muslim and Muslim against Christian wars in recent years, the Zionists are trying to make others forget their crimes and make the Muslims, the regional people and the world forget the oppressed Palestine and the savagery of the Zionists.”

June 29, 2016 addressing a cabinet meeting in Tehran
“We should always be vigilant against the danger of the Zionist regime as the main source of violence and extremism.”

April 14, 2016, addressing the 13th summit of the OIC
“Certain governments are created based on terrorism and see their survival in light of terrorism and its clear instance is the fake Zionist regime in the Palestinian territories. The (Israeli) government and regime basically started its job based on intimidation, terrorism and occupation and today it is continuing the same anti-human path."

August 31, 2015, addressing a congress in Tehran
The “occupying regime” (Israel) “is the creator of the greatest danger for the region… Americans and the people of the world are more intelligent than to listen to advice from an ever-warmongering regime.”

March 4, 2015 remarks to Iranian cabinet
“Today, only the enemy of this nation is opposed to the negotiations table, meaning the Zionists who are trying to do all that they can [to undermine the P5+1 negotiations].”

February 11, 2015, addressing a large gathering in Tehran
"We believe that the root cause of problems in the region is the usurping occupation of Palestinian territories."

January 26, 2015 remarks to Jordan's Ambassador to Iran
Iran "will use all tools at its disposal to save al-Aqsa Mosque and liberate the first Qibla (point of direction to which Muslims turn for prayers) of Muslims… We are confident that the final victory belongs to Muslims."

September 1, 2014 statement on World Mosque Day in Tehran
"Today in Iraq, the oppressed people are put to the sword of murderers who, unfortunately, claim deviously to [be promoting] Islam, but in practice they are mercenaries of the Zionists and have made millions of Iraqis, including Kurds, Sunnis and Shias homeless."

August 20, 2014 speech, claiming the jihadist organization ISIS "are mercenaries of the Zionists"
"The savage aggression by the army of this child-killer regime (Israel), continues with a deliberate policy to commit genocide and massacre civilians and destroy infrastructure, houses, hospitals, schools and mosques."

August 4, 2014 speech before the Palestine Committee of the Non-Aligned Movement
"Today, this festering Zionist tumor has opened once again and has turned the land of olives into destruction and blood and littered the land with the body parts of Palestinian children."

July 29, 2014 Eid al-Fitr address marking the end of Ramadan
"I'm not a historian. I'm a politician."an evasive response to a question from NBC News’ Ann Curry on whether he believes that the Holocaust was a “myth” like his predecessor Mahmoud Ahmadinejad

September 19, 2013,NBC interview
"Unfortunately, there is this pressure group, a war-mongering group, which opposes the holding of constructive talks, and this group pursues the interests of a foreign country, from which they receive orders." accusing U.S. Congress of taking orders from Israel.

August 6, 2013, remarks at his first official press conference as President of Iran
"In circumstances where the world of Islam is facing problems in the region, Zionists think that this is an appropriate opportunity to show a peace-seeking image of themselves while in reality they continue their invasions and transgressions of the Palestinian land."

August 2, 2013 remarks on al-Quds Day in opposition to peace talks between the Palestinian Authority and Israel
"After all, in our region there's been a wound for years on the body of the Muslim world under the shadow of the occupation of the holy land of Palestine and the beloved al-Quds (Jerusalem)."

August 2, 2013 remarks on Israel during al-Quds day advocating for the liberation of Palestine
"When some [the United States and Israel] say that all options are on the table and when a miserable regional country [Israel] says such things, it makes you laugh... Who are the Zionists to threaten us?" referring to comments by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Israel is prepared to take military action to stop Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons

July 17, 2013 speech to Iran-Iraq war veterans
"[Israel is] the great Zionist Satan."

2012 address

Hassan Rouhani: Former President of Iran

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Hassan Rouhani: In His Own Words

Nuclear program

"You were afraid of IR1 centrifuges, today we unveiled IR6, and if you continue to walk down this road, you will see cascades of IR8 in the near future."

“The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is very unlikely to accept America’s demand to inspect our military sites.”

"Repeated breaches of commitments by the US administration ... can be destructive. … The world should know that any breach of the deal will face a unified reaction of the Iranian nation and government.

“Iran’s understanding of the JCPOA is that the deal is not an agreement with just one country or administration. Rather it was strengthened as a UNSC resolution, and it cannot be changed with the decision of a single administration.”

“If America had implemented the JCPOA precisely and with good will, perhaps we could have trusted them and been agreeable to negotiating on other subjects with them.”

“We always keep our word. But if they want to breach their commitment, our nuclear capabilities are such that we can reach the level we want in a short period of time.”

“Negotiating parties know that sanctions and pressure on Iran is futile. The centrifuges will never stop and the [conditions] of the people will get better.”

"Our red line is our scientific development and research on nuclear fields and Iran will by no means negotiate its defense potential, including its missile program."

"In the context of R&D and peaceful nuclear technology, we will not accept any limitations... Not under any circumstances" would Iran destroy any of its existing centrifuges.

"One hundred per cent [no]." in response to an interview question about dismantling nuclear facilities.

"No matter what interpretations are given, Iran's right to enrichment has been recognized." following agreement between Iran and the P5+1 on an interim nuclear deal

"Our government will not give up one iota of its absolute rights" on the nuclear issue.

"We completed the [uranium enrichment] program." boasting about how, during his tenure as chief nuclear negotiator in 2004, Iran did not suspend uranium enrichment; on the contrary, this was the period when the program was completed

“Any resolution which seeks to bind us to suspension [of uranium enrichment] is unacceptable and we will not accept such an obligation.”

“We will go ahead with confidence-building and will endeavor to build up our [nuclear] technical capability to restore our national rights in the context of the international conventions. This is our diplomacy: to proceed [in] both directions simultaneously.”

"One of the members indicated here that all this should have been done in secret. This was the intention; this never was supposed to be in the open. But in any case, the spies exposed it. We did not want to declare all this."

Ballistic Missiles

"If you want to limit Iran’s military power, you know that we have developed missiles since last year that you wouldn’t even imagine.”

“We have not asked and will not ask for permission to develop different types of ... missiles and will continue our path and our military power."

“We will build, produce and store any weapon of any kind we need to defend ourselves, our territorial integrity and our nation, and we will not hesitate about it.”

"The remarks by the enemies of the Iranian nation against Iran's missile power are out of ignorance. … We need missiles and the enemy should know that we make everything we need and we don’t pay an iota of attention to your words."

"The Iranian nation has decided to be powerful. Our missiles are for peace and for defense...American officials should know that whenever we need to technically test a missile, we will do so and will not wait for their permission."

“Iran will ask no soul’s permission to build missiles.”

Defense of the Islamic Revolution - Khomeinism

Our nation will deal with this minority who chant slogans against the law and people’s wishes, and insult the sanctities and values of the revolution.”

“We are Muslim and revolutionary Iranians. We neither idolize nor fear outsiders and will use constructive interaction with the world to advance public and national interests."

“All of what we have, are due to the Islamic Revolution, the Ten Days of Dawn, and endeavors by the Iranian nation, led by Imam Khomeini, which brought us dignity, freedom, independence, Islamic ethics, and the Islamic Republic.”

The United States

“If the United States wants to negotiate, it must lift the sanctions in their entirety before anything. We can’t talk to a criminal.”

“Peace with Iran is the mother of all peace, war with Iran is the mother of all wars. You (Americans) cannot harm our security and expect security for yourself in return.”

"The power of our armed forces is the power of the region’s countries, the Islamic world. … If we have a problem in the region today, its roots are either with Zionism or America's arrogance."

“Mr Trump, don’t play with the lion’s tail, this would only lead to regret. America should know that peace with Iran is the mother of all peace, and war with Iran is the mother of all wars.”

“In our region, we have witnessed different crimes and acts of aggression by regional countries and sometimes by big powers and the US.”

"America... is our enemy, we have no doubt about this. The Americans want to put as much pressure on us as they can."

“He may want many things. He may want to weaken or rip up the JCPOA. Would we or the Iranian nation permit it? America cannot influence our will or our path of resistance and endurance.”

“At the UN, a head of state asked me which of the two canidates [Trump or Clinton] would be better. I said that I would prefer not to choose between bad or worse. Look at how they talk, the way they accuse each other, and the way they mock each other!”

“Optimism [towards] the agreement does not mean optimism [towards] the U.S. government.”

“Today, anti-Islam, anti-Iran and anti-Shiism are the definitive policies of America and the governments who are affiliated with it.”

"The world of hegemony and arrogance is seeking to undermine Islam and dominate Muslim lands."

"Iran believes that the US and the West are always seeking a pretext to confront with those countries, which are not friendly in their view."

“Saying 'Death to America' is easy. We need to express 'Death to America' with action. Saying it is easy.”

"Iran is a victim of terrorism, and the terrorist groups who have fought against our people are being supported by the United States of America."

"Generally speaking, America is not keen on independent countries. America is not keen on people's freedom. America is keen on countries that completely surrender themselves and act according to America's demands."

"The beautiful cry of 'Death to America' unites our nation."

Human rights