Tehran: Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, rejects US talks after Washington imposed fresh sanctions on Iran’s oil sector. He called negotiations “neither wise, intelligent, nor honorable.”
Khamenei’s Strong Response
Speaking to air force personnel in Tehran, the 85-year-old leader accused the US of failing to honor its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal. He insisted that the US never fully lifted sanctions, despite the agreement initially easing economic restrictions.
“Negotiating with such a government should not be done,” Khamenei stated. “It is neither wise, intelligent, nor honorable.”
His remarks come amid growing pressure within Iran’s political establishment. Some officials urge President Masoud Pezeshkian to engage in talks to prevent further economic damage. However, Khamenei dismissed this approach, warning of retaliation against US actions.
“If they threaten us, we will threaten them. If they act on those threats, we will do the same,” he declared. “If they undermine our nation’s security, we will undoubtedly respond.”
Trump’s Comments Fuel Tensions
The latest US sanctions follow a statement from former President Donald Trump, who denied reports of a planned US-Israeli attack on Iran. His comments on social media dismissed the claims as “greatly exaggerated.”
Trump also suggested a controversial idea—proposing that the US take control of Gaza and transform it into the “Riviera of the Middle East.” This statement sparked debate across the region, further straining US-Iran relations.
Economic Hardships and Sanctions
Khamenei rejected the notion that negotiations with the US could ease Iran’s economic crisis. “Negotiations with the United States have no impact on solving the country’s problems,” he said.
Iran’s economy has suffered significantly since 2018, when Trump reimposed oil and banking sanctions. The national currency has lost 95% of its value, while inflation has hovered around 40% for the past five years. Official estimates suggest that over one-third of Iranians now live below the poverty line.
Khamenei blamed decades of US pressure but also dismissed domestic critics who argue that diplomatic engagement could improve economic conditions. He maintains that resistance, not negotiation, is the best strategy for Iran.
What’s Next?
With tensions escalating, Iran’s future economic and political direction remains uncertain. The US continues its pressure campaign, while Iran stands firm in its opposition. As sanctions bite harder, the debate over diplomacy versus defiance is set to intensify within Iran’s leadership.
