Trump Pushes Iran for New Nuclear Deal

Amid Iran's rapidly advancing nuclear program, President Trump reaches out to Tehran offering a diplomatic path forward.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (PBS)

Trump Confirms Outreach to Iran

President Donald Trump recently confirmed sending a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, suggesting negotiations for a new nuclear agreement. This move comes as concerns grow over Iran’s advancing uranium enrichment, bringing them closer to weapons-grade levels. (AP News)

Notably, Trump had previously pulled the U.S. out of the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018, citing its failure to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions and address other security issues. (Time)

Trump Emphasizes Diplomatic or Military Solutions

In an interview with Fox Business News, Trump expressed a preference for diplomacy, stating, "There are two ways Iran can be handled, militarily or you make a deal. I would prefer to make a deal." He emphasized that engaging in talks would benefit Iran more than continued tension. (ABC News)

Skepticism from Iran’s Leadership

While the White House confirmed the letter’s dispatch, Iran's mission to the UN stated it had not received any such correspondence. Iranian officials remain skeptical of any U.S. diplomatic efforts, especially under the current administration’s "maximum pressure" strategy.

Abbas Araghchi, Iran's deputy foreign minister, rejected direct talks, saying, “We will not enter any direct negotiations with the US so long as they continue their maximum pressure policy and their threats.” (The Guardian)

What’s Next for U.S.-Iran Relations?