Iran Rejects Direct Talks with U.S. Following Trump's Letter

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Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian announced on Sunday that the Islamic Republic has rejected direct negotiations with the United States regarding its nuclear program. This statement came in response to a letter from President Donald Trump addressed to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. While Iran is open to the possibility of indirect talks, progress has stalled since the U.S. withdrew from the nuclear agreement in 2018.

Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran does not shy away from discussions but expressed concerns over the breach of promises that have led to mistrust. The Iranian government has faced increased economic difficulties and regional tensions since the U.S. adopted a "maximum pressure" strategy against Tehran. Following this policy shift, Iran's currency has significantly depreciated.

Tensions in the region have escalated, particularly following the recent Israel-Hamas conflict and ongoing U.S. airstrikes against Iranian-backed groups. Iranian officials have issued warnings about the risks of military confrontation should U.S. actions threaten Iran's sovereignty, citing their missile capabilities as a deterrent.

Trump's letter, which called for negotiations to avoid military conflict, echoed his previous communications with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, though no significant agreements resulted from those interactions. The U.S. and Israel have consistently asserted that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapon capabilities, raising concerns about potential military action as Iran advances its uranium enrichment efforts.

Despite the hardline stance taken by Iranian leadership, mixed signals have emerged from the country regarding its position on negotiations, with public demonstrations recently focusing on anti-Israel sentiments while less emphasis was placed on anti-American rhetoric. As developments unfold, the international community remains watchful of the situation.