Yes, according to reporting from Hong Kong-based media (Phoenix TV) and other Chinese state-affiliated outlets, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on April 15, 2026, that the United States aims to "take down Iran first" before confronting China.
Key Details from the Report:
- The Context: Pezeshkian made these remarks while visiting the headquarters of Iran's Red Crescent Society in Tehran for a ceremony to receive humanitarian aid from China, as reported by Phoenix TV News.
- The Quote: He stated, "The US wants to take us down first, then take on China," indicating a belief that Iran is currently the primary target of a broader US strategy.
- U.S. Strategy View: He characterized the US naval blockade on Iran as a move that "will only bring trouble to themselves" and described China as a major target of US foreign policy, according to the report.
- Meeting with China: During this time, Iran's President was receiving 60 tonnes of humanitarian aid from China.
This statement was made in the context of high tensions between Iran and the US (under the second Trump administration as shown in the search results) and in the wake of a 12-day air war between Iran and Israel, aiming to solidify Iran's alignment with China against Western pressure.
