Iran announced it will consider President Trump’s letter of “threats and opportunities” but will not negotiate under pressure. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that despite facing significant setbacks, Iran aims for a comeback, emphasizing equality in negotiations. The U.S. has imposed new sanctions targeting Iran’s oil exports, and Iran is escalating uranium enrichment. The letter is being carefully evaluated, and a response will come through appropriate channels.
On Thursday, Iran communicated its intention to consider United States President Donald Trump’s letter, branded as containing “threats and opportunities,” but firmly reiterated that it would not engage in negotiations under pressure or sanctions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made this declaration amid ongoing diplomatic efforts regarding Tehran’s nuclear capabilities, noting that recent adversities have made this a particularly difficult time for Iran, reminiscent of its challenges during the eight-year Iraq war in the 1980s.
Mr. Araghchi affirmed that Iran is currently facing its toughest circumstances but remains determined to recover, drawing from the “invaluable experience” garnered from recent events. President Trump has expressed a desire to negotiate with Iran rather than resorting to military action. After reinstating his “maximum pressure” campaign, he has urged Tehran to engage in discussions for a new nuclear agreement.
Despite the evolving situation, Mr. Araghchi emphasized that Iran will not engage in direct negotiations while being subjected to pressure and sanctions, stating, “Negotiations must take place from a position of equality.” He acknowledged Mr. Trump’s letter, delivered earlier this month, is under review, declaring that a response would be issued at an appropriate time through the relevant channels.
While Iran has continuously denied intentions to develop nuclear weapons, it has reportedly increased its uranium enrichment to 60% purity—a significant concern as it is relatively close to the 90% purity needed for weapon development, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency. Concurrently, the United States Treasury Department announced new sanctions targeting networks aiding Iran’s oil exports, aimed at disrupting its financial avenues.
Mr. Araghchi characterized Trump’s letter as possessing “more of a threatening tone” while also hinting at opportunities. He stated that Iran is carefully evaluating all aspects of the communication, citing, “As martyr Suleimani put it: within every threat lies an opportunity. God willing, we will also consider these opportunities and choose the right path.” Former Quds Force leader Maj Gen Qassem Suleimani, who was instrumental in Iran’s regional influence, was assassinated in a US drone strike in 2020.
The “axis of resistance,” a coalition that enhances Tehran’s sway over the Middle East, has considerably weakened in recent months. Araghchi remarked on the challenges faced this year, while also expressing hope that these difficulties will transform into a launching pad for Iran’s resurgence, stating, “We suffered setbacks, but we gained invaluable experiences.”
In summary, Iran is deliberating over President Trump’s letter, which it perceives to contain threats alongside potential opportunities. While firmly rejecting negotiations under pressure, Iran aims to leverage past experiences for a stronger future. The nation acknowledges the challenges it currently faces, particularly concerning its nuclear developments and regional influences as it assesses its position moving forward.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
