Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, criticized U.S. President Trump’s bullying tactics and threats regarding military action related to Iran’s nuclear program. He expressed that foreign powers aim to dominate through negotiations, and emphasized Iran’s commitment to its nuclear program’s peaceful nature. Khamenei rejected negotiations with the U.S., questioning the fulfillment of commitments by Western nations under the JCPOA.
On Saturday, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned perceived bullying tactics employed by foreign governments, specifically referencing threats made by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding military action against Iran. Khamenei described the tactics of these “bully governments” as negotiations aimed at asserting dominance rather than resolving issues.
Following Trump’s suggestion of military action should Iran refuse negotiations on its nuclear program, Khamenei criticized the imposition of unrealistic expectations by foreign powers, asserting that Tehran would not succumb to such pressures, although he did not explicitly mention the United States.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated that negotiations under “maximum pressure” are unacceptable, indirectly responding to Trump’s letter. This approach aligns with Trump’s reestablishment of a maximum pressure policy, which included the U.S. withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, a deal aimed at limiting Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.
Khamenei further expressed dissatisfaction with European governments—specifically the UK, France, and Germany—for claiming Iran has not met its nuclear commitments, countering, “Have you fulfilled your commitments under the JCPOA?” He indicated that a rollback from commitments was necessary due to new legislative measures from the Iranian parliament.
Additionally, U.S. officials indicated that Iran could develop a nuclear weapon within weeks, an assertion Iran has consistently denied, emphasizing the peaceful intent behind its nuclear program as defined by Khamenei’s religious decree prohibiting such weapons. Khamenei characterized negotiations with the United States as “unwise,” criticizing Washington for having violated the 2015 agreement. He has firmly declined any talks with Trump, deeming the U.S. President unworthy of communication.
In summary, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s remarks reflect Iran’s firm stance against perceived bullying by foreign governments, particularly in light of U.S. threats. His acknowledgment of Iran’s compliance with the JCPOA contrasts with accusations from Western nations, underscoring the complexities surrounding the diplomatic negotiations. The Iranian leadership remains resolutely opposed to negotiations under duress and maintains that its nuclear ambitions are peaceful in nature.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com