Ayatollah Khamenei has declared Iran will not engage in negotiations under U.S. pressure, following Trump’s call for a nuclear agreement. Khamenei emphasized that U.S. motivations involve imposing new demands beyond nuclear issues. The White House reaffirmed options of negotiation or military action, while Iran accelerates its nuclear activities amidst increasing regional tensions and sanctions.
On Saturday, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei affirmed Iran’s resistance to U.S.-imposed pressures regarding negotiations, following President Trump’s letter urging dialogue on a nuclear agreement. Trump reiterated on Fox Business that the two approaches to address Iran’s nuclear ambitions are military action or negotiations.
Khamenei, during a meeting with senior officials, asserted that U.S. objectives include forcing Tehran to accept new demands, indicating that discussions would not solely focus on Iran’s nuclear program. He emphasized, “The insistence of some bullying governments on negotiations is not to resolve issues… Iran will definitely not accept their expectations.”
In response to Khamenei’s comments, National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes voiced alignment with Trump’s position, stressing negotiations or military action as options. Trump’s renewed commitment to a “maximum pressure” strategy aims to isolate Iran economically, reversing the 2015 nuclear deal which had mitigated sanctions in exchange for limitations on Iran’s nuclear activities.
After the U.S. exited the agreement in 2018, Iran began to breach the established limits. Rafael Grossi, leader of the UN nuclear watchdog, cautioned that time is swiftly running out to impose new restrictions on Iran’s escalating nuclear endeavors. Despite this, Iran maintains its nuclear pursuits are aimed at peaceful purposes.
Khamenei, who ultimately decides Iran’s strategic policies, reiterated the necessity to oppose coercive tactics from the U.S., stating, “They are bringing up new demands that certainly will not be accepted by Iran, like our defense capabilities, missile range, and international influence.” Though Iran claims its missile initiative is defensive, it is viewed as a disruptor in the tumultuous Middle Eastern context. Amid increasing U.S. and Israeli tensions, Iran’s military advancements continue, including the unveiling of a drone carrier and underground naval facilities.
In summary, Ayatollah Khamenei’s recent statements reflect Iran’s firm stance against U.S. pressures and demands concerning its nuclear program and defense capabilities. With the backdrop of escalating tensions and the re-imposition of sanctions by the U.S., the prospect of negotiations remains complex and fraught with challenges. Iran continues to assert its right to pursue military enhancements amidst concerns of proliferation and regional stability.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
