Iran’s leader stated on Tuesday that he had directed the country’s foreign minister to engage in “fair and just negotiations” with the United States, showing Tehran’s willingness to pursue dialogue amidst ongoing tensions following the violent crackdown on nationwide protests. This shift by President Masoud Pezeshkian, who had previously cautioned Iranians about the escalating situation, also indicates the approval of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for talks that he had previously dismissed.
Efforts were underway, with Turkey facilitating discussions later in the week as U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff visited the region. Foreign ministers from Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates were also reportedly invited to participate in the potential talks. However, the outcome of negotiations between Iran and the U.S. remains uncertain, especially as President Donald Trump has outlined Iran’s nuclear program as a key demand. Trump previously authorized the bombing of three Iranian nuclear facilities during a conflict initiated by Israel against Iran in June 2025.
In a statement on X, Pezeshkian mentioned that the decision was made following requests from regional allies to respond to the U.S. President’s proposal for talks. Emphasizing the importance of a conducive environment without threats or unrealistic expectations, he instructed the Foreign Minister to pursue negotiations guided by principles of respect, caution, and efficiency.
While the U.S. has not confirmed the talks, a semi-official Iranian news agency briefly reported that Pezeshkian had instructed Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to engage in discussions, which was later removed without explanation. Discussions, if realized, are expected to focus solely on nuclear issues, with the potential for indirect talks initially, transitioning to direct negotiations if progress is made towards an agreement.
Addressing speculations about Russia’s involvement in Iran’s enriched uranium, a senior advisor to Khamenei dismissed the notion, stating that Iran’s nuclear objectives do not include seeking or stockpiling nuclear weapons. Despite enriching uranium to 60% purity, Iran has maintained its stance of not pursuing nuclear weapons. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has sought access to inspect the bombarded sites from the June conflict, which Iran has thus far declined.
Witkoff’s itinerary includes meetings with Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Mossad intelligence chief, and the military’s chief of staff. Israel is expected to advocate for terms in any agreement with Iran that involve the removal of enriched uranium, cessation of uranium enrichment, limitations on ballistic missile production, and an end to support for Tehran’s allies. However, discussions about uranium enrichment have been a sticking point in past negotiations with the U.S., with Iran asserting that they had halted enrichment following the U.S. strikes on nuclear facilities.
