Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered the start of nuclear talks with the United States, signaling willingness for diplomacy while maintaining that Tehran will respond firmly to any military threats.
Following anti-government protests last month, US President Donald Trump threatened military action and deployed an aircraft carrier group to the region, while insisting he remains hopeful of a nuclear deal with Iran.
Iran confirmed that it is preparing a negotiation framework, with details to be finalized in the coming days. Regional players are relaying messages between Tehran and Washington to facilitate dialogue and reduce tensions.
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Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei emphasized that Iran will never accept ultimatums and expects sanctions relief in exchange for compliance on nuclear issues, highlighting the country’s insistence on equal and fair negotiations.
Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, engaged with counterparts from Turkey, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia to push for diplomatic solutions and prevent the situation from escalating into regional conflict.
The backdrop of talks follows severe domestic unrest, with thousands of deaths reported during January protests. Authorities continue mass arrests, while Iran has also designated European forces as terrorists in retaliation for the EU listing the IRGC.