Khamenei: Negotiations With The US Will Not Lead To Results

In a speech marking the anniversary of the death of former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei reiterated his stance on negotiations with the United States. He stated that he did not believe such talks would yield results, reinforcing his long-standing skepticism about the possibility of successful negotiations with the U.S. on Iran's nuclear program.

Khamenei referenced Raisi's initial remarks as president, in which Raisi explicitly rejected direct negotiations with the United States. Khamenei emphasized that Raisi had not allowed Iran to be pressured into negotiations with the“enemy,” suggesting that the leadership in Tehran remains firm in its resistance to U.S. influence and interference.

The Supreme Leader also sharply criticized the U.S. approach to the negotiations, accusing American negotiators, without naming Steve Witkoff, the U.S. envoy to the Middle East under Donald Trump, of making“nonsense” statements. Khamenei implied that U.S. negotiators have failed to present fair and realistic terms, accusing them of undermining the prospects for a productive dialogue.

Khamenei's speech also included a direct response to the Trump administration's demand for“zero enrichment” of uranium by Iran. He dismissed this demand as“ridiculously excessive” and vowed to explain to the Iranian public why the U.S. is insisting on such a request. This statement underscores the Iranian government's commitment to its nuclear program, despite mounting international pressure to halt uranium enrichment activities.

These remarks were made as indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States over the nuclear deal, particularly the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), have reached an impasse in recent years. The stalemate has cast doubt on the future of the nuclear agreement, with both sides continuing to hold differing positions on critical issues such as uranium enrichment and sanctions relief.

Khamenei's recent comments reflect Tehran's hardened stance in response to international pressures and its continued commitment to its nuclear program. The rejection of direct talks with the U.S. highlights the deep mistrust between the two nations and the challenges that lie ahead in resolving the nuclear dispute. As diplomatic efforts remain stalled, Iran's leadership appears determined to assert its independence on the global stage, further complicating the prospects for a renewed nuclear deal.

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