Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has announced that Iran is willing to pursue negotiations with the United States after receiving requests from friendly governments in the region to respond to a U.S. proposal for talks.
In a statement on social media, Pezeshkian instructed Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abbas Araghchi, to pursue discussions provided that a suitable environment exists - one free from threats and unreasonable expectations.
This announcement comes following a warning from Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, that any attack on Iran would lead to a regional conflict.
U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to intervene in Iran over its nuclear ambitions and the violent crackdown on protesters, leading to increased military buildup in the region.
Pezeshkian emphasized that these negotiations must align with Iran's national interests. Reports indicate that the upcoming talks will be held in Istanbul on Friday.
Pezeshkian's announcement follows an interview where Araghchi expressed confidence in achieving a deal. Trump remarked that if an agreement could be reached, it would be beneficial, warning of serious consequences otherwise.
The recent escalation includes the U.S. executing targeted strikes against Iran's nuclear facilities, which were a response to earlier operations by Israel against Iranian nuclear infrastructure.
In light of public unrest and severe crackdowns by Iranian security forces, the Iranian government's claims about protest-related casualties, initially reported at 3,117, are being challenged by human rights organizations that suggest the fatalities could be much higher.
Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has confirmed at least 6,430 deaths during protests, including children and individuals connected to the government, with the overall toll potentially surpassing 25,000 according to rights groups.
The demonstrations initially stemmed from economic grievances and evolved into calls for political reform, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction among the Iranian populace.
Moreover, reports indicate that Iranian officials have informed Khamenei about the rising public anger, which they assert has reached a point where fear of reprisals is losing its hold over the people.
