TEHRAN – President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Tuesday that public support has been central to the country’s survival during past foreign threats and remains critical to addressing current social and developmental challenges.
“During the eight-year war of the 1980s, the entire world stood behind the criminal Ba’athist regime, hoping to crush the fledgling Islamic Republic. Yet the support of the Iranian people for the system and the revolution thwarted their malicious intentions,” Pezeshkian said at a ceremony marking International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
He noted that foreign powers, including Israel and the United States, had similarly sought to destabilize the country through short-term attacks, believing that a few days of bombing could turn public sentiment against the government. 
“Once again, the people stood by their nation and system, foiling these conspiracies,” he said.
Pezeshkian stressed the government’s reliance on citizens to overcome challenges, emphasizing social unity.
“No challenge can be solved without relying on the people. Society should not be divided into ‘insiders’ and ‘outsiders.’ These citizens seek the dignity, honor, and pride of their country,” he said.
He described a philosophy of turning hardships into opportunities for public engagement and problem-solving. 
“Even negative events can act as a goldmine, revealing capacities and opportunities. Without these difficulties, many potential solutions might have been overlooked,” Pezeshkian said.
Pezeshkian said the government was addressing regional imbalances and social inequalities by mobilizing public participation. “With active engagement and support from the people, enormous potential emerges, creating motivation and capacity to address societal challenges,” he said.
He highlighted the enduring role of citizen determination in safeguarding national independence. “Enemies cannot subdue a steadfast nation with weapons and aircraft. With your support, we remain committed to building a stronger country,” he said.