Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has firmly dismissed a US proposal for nuclear deal negotiations, calling it a deceptive tactic aimed at pressuring Tehran rather than resolving disputes. The rejection, announced on Wednesday, underscores ongoing tensions as American representatives pursue diplomatic channels amid escalating global concerns over Iran’s nuclear program.
In a speech to university students in Tehran, Khamenei labeled the US offer—delivered via a letter from President Donald Trump—as a “deception of public opinion.” He argued that past experiences, notably the US withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear accord, prove negotiations futile. “When we know they won’t honor it, what’s the point of negotiating?” he stated, according to state media. The letter, handed to Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi by UAE envoy Anwar Gargash on March 12, urged talks to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions but was met with swift rebuff.
Trump, who reimposed his “maximum pressure” campaign with sanctions targeting Iran’s oil exports, had expressed openness to a deal, saying on March 7, “I’d prefer to make a deal, because I’m not looking to hurt Iran.” Yet Khamenei countered that such talks mask excessive demands, including limits on Iran’s missile range and regional influence—conditions Tehran deems unacceptable. “Their aim is to tighten sanctions, not solve problems,” he added.
The International Atomic Energy Agency recently reported Iran’s stockpile of near weapons-grade uranium has surged, heightening Western fears, though Tehran insists its program is peaceful. This standoff follows mixed signals from Iran; last August, Khamenei hinted at openness to talks, but his latest remarks align with a harder line echoed by President Masoud Pezeshkian, who defers to the Supreme Leader’s stance.
As US envoys push diplomacy—concurrently heading to Moscow for Ukraine talks—the rejection signals a deepening impasse. Analysts warn that without dialogue, military escalation looms, a concern for global stability with ripple effects on Pakistan and beyond.
