Iran Denounces 'Bullying' Nations Amid Trump’s Ultimatum for Nuclear Negotiations

Iran's Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has condemned "bullying countries" in response to Donald Trump's letter urging negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program, emphasizing that such negotiations are aimed more at domination than resolution.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has recently criticized what he terms "bullying governments" amid heightened tensions with the United States over Iran's nuclear program. His remarks came in the wake of a letter from former President Donald Trump, who warned that Iran could face military action unless it agrees to negotiations regarding its nuclear ambitions.

Trump, speaking to Fox Business, stated that he believes there are "two ways Iran can be handled - militarily, or you make a deal," expressing a preference for negotiation over conflict. He indicated that he had extended an opportunity for Iran to come to the negotiating table, framing it as a chance to avoid military escalation.

In a Ramadan meeting reported by local media, Khamenei did not directly mention the U.S. but criticized "some bully governments" pushing Iran towards negotiations. He argued that such discussions are not designed to resolve issues, but rather aimed at "domination." Khamenei further stressed that the context of these negotiations extends beyond just the nuclear issue, suggesting that any new demands brought forth by these nations will not be met by Iran.

The international community remains concerned about Iran's advancing nuclear capabilities, with the United Nations nuclear watchdog expressing alarm over Tehran's recent increase in highly enriched uranium production. President Trump has attributed Iran's nuclear progression to the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal, which had previously imposed limitations on Iran's enrichment activities. Since the breakdown of this agreement, Iran has accelerated its nuclear program, resulting in uranium stocks nearing weapons-grade levels.

Meanwhile, regional tensions have intensified in the Middle East, with Trump's administration suggesting support for Israeli military action against Iranian nuclear facilities, amid the backdrop of a cycle of attacks between both nations. Iran faces ongoing economic strain due to Western sanctions and has experienced widespread protests over social and economic issues.

In a show of military unity, Iran is set to conduct annual joint naval drills with Russia and China, demonstrating its strategic alliances in a climate of geopolitical hostility.