Ayatollah Khamenei announced that Iran will not negotiate under U.S. pressure following Trump’s letter urging talks on a nuclear deal. Khamenei stressed that U.S. demands are non-negotiable, and Iran will not discuss its defense capabilities or missile range. While Trump hints at open negotiations, he has reinforced sanctions on Iran, leading to heightened tensions and concerns over nuclear activities.
On Saturday, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared that Iran will not succumb to pressure for negotiations, particularly in light of a letter from U.S. President Donald Trump encouraging talks regarding a nuclear agreement. Khamenei emphasized that Washington’s intention is to impose its demands rather than seek genuine resolution,
noting that discussions would simply lead to greater expectations from the U.S. regarding Iran’s nuclear issues and other matters.
Trump had suggested that the situation could either escalate militarily or be resolved through a negotiated deal to curtail Iran’s nuclear ambitions. White House National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the choice between negotiations or military action. Hughes highlighted the importance of Iran prioritizing its people’s welfare instead of terrorism.
While Trump has expressed willingness to negotiate, he has simultaneously reactivated a stringent sanctions campaign aimed at crippling Iran’s economy and diminishing its oil exports. Following the U.S. withdrawal from an international agreement limiting Iran’s nuclear program, which had been established under his administration, Iran has significantly surpassed its nuclear activity limits,
culminating in growing international concern regarding its uranium enrichment nearing weapons-grade levels.
Khamenei asserted that there is no alternative to resisting coercion and reiterated that Iran would not accept new demands, which he described as intolerable, concerning defense capabilities and missile range. He underscored that although Tehran claims its missile program is defensive in nature, it is viewed as a threat by the West, amidst escalating tensions with the U.S. and Israel. Notably, Iran has introduced enhanced weaponry, including a drone carrier and an underground naval base, as a response to these tensions.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei firmly rejected any negotiations under U.S. pressure, characterizing Washington’s demands as unacceptable. Despite the U.S. offering talks as an alternative to military action, Iran remains committed to its defense capabilities and nuclear program. Trump’s re-implementation of sanctions further complicates relations, with Iran exceeding nuclear limits post-2018. The situation remains delicate as diplomatic efforts are hindered by mutual distrust and escalating military posturing.
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