WASHINGTON – U.S. President Donald Trump has reached out to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, confirming he sent a letter proposing negotiations for a nuclear deal. Trump expressed urgency in preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, saying diplomacy is the preferred alternative to military action.
“I said I hope you’re going to negotiate, because it’s going to be a lot better for Iran,” Trump told Fox Business Network. “The other alternative is we have to do something, because you can’t let another nuclear weapon.”
Iran Yet to Respond
Iran’s mission to the United Nations stated on Friday that it had not yet received the letter. There has been no immediate response from the Iranian Foreign Ministry, as weekends in Iran begin on Friday.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Nour News, linked to the country’s top security body, dismissed the move as a “repetitive show” by Washington.
Final Stages of a Possible Deal?
Speaking at the White House, Trump hinted that a resolution with Iran is imminent.
“We’re down to final strokes with Iran. That’s going to be an interesting time. And we’ll see what happens. But we’re down to the final moments. Final moments. Can’t let them have a nuclear weapon,” he said.
While Trump emphasized his preference for diplomacy, he also warned of a potential military alternative if talks fail.
“There are two ways Iran can be handled: militarily, or you make a deal,” he stated.
International Reactions and Russia’s Mediation Offer
Western nations fear that a nuclear-armed Iran could escalate tensions in the Middle East, posing a threat to Israel and Gulf Arab nations while sparking a regional arms race.
Russia has offered to mediate between the U.S. and Iran, according to sources familiar with diplomatic efforts. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov recently discussed Iran’s nuclear program with Tehran’s ambassador, signaling Moscow’s interest in a peaceful resolution.
Renewed U.S. Sanctions
Since taking office in January, Trump has reinstated his “maximum pressure” campaign, aiming to cripple Iran’s economy by reducing its oil exports to zero. While still open to negotiations, his administration has also pushed for the snapback of U.N. sanctions.
Historical Precedents
This is not the first time a U.S. president has reached out to Iranian leaders. Former President Barack Obama wrote directly to Khamenei twice in 2009 and 2012, and Iran confirmed exchanging letters with Obama’s administration in 2013.
The United States and Iran cut diplomatic ties in 1980 after the U.S. Embassy hostage crisis in Tehran.
Trump’s full interview discussing the Iran talks will air on Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures” this weekend.