Iran’s President, Masoud Pezeshkian, affirmed the country’s commitment to ongoing negotiations with the United States regarding its nuclear program, despite U.S. threats. During a speech broadcast on state television, he emphasized that Iran would not compromise its rights and would continue to strengthen its military and nuclear capabilities. The discussions have progressed to an “expert” level aimed at detailing a potential agreement, yet a significant disagreement persists over Iran’s uranium enrichment, which Tehran insists is necessary while the U.S. demands disarmament.
President Trump has threatened airstrikes against Iran’s facilities if an agreement is not reached, prompting Iranian officials to hint at pursuing nuclear weapons if necessary. Trump indicated that Iran received a proposal during the talks, but specifics were not disclosed. He reiterated the U.S. stance that Iran must not be permitted to develop a nuclear bomb, a claim counter to U.S. intelligence assessments suggesting Tehran is not actively seeking such capability.
Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran’s Atomic Organization, defended the peaceful intent of Iran’s program, highlighting that it is under stringent oversight from the U.N. nuclear watchdog, which conducted over 450 inspections in 2024 alone. The regional tensions escalated further, with Israel threatening military action against Iran’s nuclear sites amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei criticized Trump’s claims of using power for peace, alleging that U.S. actions lead to violence, particularly in Gaza. He reaffirmed Iran’s hostile stance towards Israel, viewing it as a destructive force that needs to be eradicated. Khamenei also contended that U.S. influence over Arab nations is failing and asserted that the U.S. should withdraw from the region.
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