Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has indicated a willingness to engage in renewed negotiations with the United States regarding Iran’s nuclear program. Despite warning of American untrustworthiness, Khamenei expressed no barriers to dialogue with the “enemy” under President Masoud Pezeshkian’s administration.
While Khamenei’s statements echo those during the 2015 nuclear deal, the situation remains complex with ongoing tensions in the Middle East, specifically the Israel-Hamas conflict. Notably, Iran has escalated its actions with missile attacks on Israel and threats of pursuing nuclear weapons.
With the collapse of the previous agreement, Iran has disregarded restrictions, enriching uranium at alarming levels and limiting IAEA inspections. This challenging backdrop underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts in the region.
Pezeshkian’s administration, supported by former Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, aims to reengage with the West through negotiations. Khamenei’s endorsement provides political coverage for these efforts, signaling a potential shift in Iran’s foreign policy.