Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that Iran will pursue negotiations with the US in response to appeals from 'friendly governments in the region'. This comes on the heels of a tense atmosphere spurred by threats from US President Donald Trump due to Iran's nuclear ambitions and its harsh crackdown on protests.
Pezeshkian made clear that he instructed Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abbas Araghchi, to engage in dialogue 'provided that a suitable environment exists - one free from threats and unreasonable expectations'. Notably, this development follows a warning from Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, suggesting that any attack on Iran would escalate into a regional conflict.
President Trump has not only threatened intervention but has also built up military presence in the area, including deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln. He conveyed willingness for negotiations but cautioned that 'bad things would happen' if talks fail.
Pezeshkian noted the importance of conducting negotiations within the framework of Iran's national interests and mentions that these talks are set to take place in Istanbul this Friday.
The backdrop to this diplomatic initiative includes the devastating crackdown on protesters in Iran, which has resulted in thousands of casualties. Reports from various human rights organizations indicate that the number of killed protesters may be significantly higher than official figures.
