Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian looks on as he attends a press conference with Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (not pictured), in Tehran, Iran. February 19, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS/File Photo
Iran Rejects U.S. Negotiation Efforts Amid Renewed Sanctions
Iranian President Dismisses U.S. Threats
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that Iran will not negotiate with the United States while under threat, reinforcing the country’s firm stance against external pressure.
- Speaking to state media on Tuesday, Pezeshkian declared: “It is unacceptable for us that they (the U.S.) give orders and make threats. I won’t even negotiate with you. Do whatever the hell you want.”
- His remarks follow renewed pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has reintroduced a “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran.
Supreme Leader Reaffirms Iran’s Position
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also rejected external pressure, stating that Tehran would not be forced into negotiations.
- Khamenei’s comments came a day after Trump publicly acknowledged sending a letter to Iranian officials, urging them to engage in talks on a new nuclear agreement.
- Despite signaling openness to diplomatic discussions, Trump has reinstated severe economic sanctions, aiming to isolate Iran and restrict its oil exports.
U.S. Pressure Campaign and Nuclear Concerns
Trump’s administration has resumed its aggressive stance toward Iran, emphasizing two possible outcomes:
- Military action against Tehran
- A negotiated agreement preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons
In a recent interview with Fox Business, Trump stated, “There are two ways Iran can be handled: militarily, or you make a deal.”
Iran’s Nuclear Advancements
Iran has consistently denied seeking nuclear weapons, yet recent reports indicate a significant acceleration of uranium enrichment.
- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has warned that Iran is now enriching uranium at levels up to 60% purity, approaching weapons-grade material (~90%).
- This acceleration follows the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal under Trump’s first administration, which led to the reimposition of strict economic sanctions.
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