In brief
In a significant diplomatic move, Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian announced that the country is open to negotiating with the United States in response to regional calls for dialogue. Pezeshkian stated that discussions would proceed under conditions free from threats and unreasonable expectations. The decision follows tensions arising from US military buildups and protests in Iran that have led to severe crackdowns. Negotiations are set to take place in Istanbul.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has declared that Iran will pursue negotiations with the United States after requests from 'friendly governments in the region' to respond to a US proposal for talks.
In a statement on X, Pezeshkian mentioned that he instructed Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs Abbas Araghchi to explore negotiations 'provided that a suitable environment exists - one free from threats and unreasonable expectations'.
This announcement comes after Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, cautioned that any attack on Iran would lead to a regional conflict.
US President Donald Trump has threatened intervention in Iran concerning its nuclear ambitions and its crackdown on protesters, as he has increased military presence in the region.
'These negotiations shall be conducted within the framework of our national interests,' Pezeshkian added. Reports suggest that discussions will be held in Istanbul on Friday.
Pezeshkian's declaration follows a CNN interview with Araghchi, in which he expressed confidence in achieving a deal. Meanwhile, Trump remarked on the chances of working something out, but warned of dire consequences if discussions fail.
The US recently executed targeted strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities as part of Operation Midnight Hammer, following significant Israeli operations against Iranian assets.
Trump indicated that a substantial military force is heading to Iran, including the 'biggest and the best' ships. This military buildup follows a severe crackdown by Iranian forces against protesters, leading to widespread civilian casualties.
Activists report that approximately 6,430 deaths occurred during the protests, with figures from active monitoring groups suggesting that the actual toll could exceed 25,000. Protests erupted primarily due to economic grievances but escalated into broader calls for political change.
Iranian officials have indicated that the fear of repercussions from the Iranian government is diminishing among the public, according to Reuters.
