We Are Not Discouraged in Ongoing Nuclear Talks with the U.S. – Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

We Are Not Discouraged in Ongoing Nuclear Talks with the U.S. – Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Dubai, April 15 (Reuters): Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said that he is “neither overly optimistic nor pessimistic” about the ongoing negotiations with the United States regarding Iran’s nuclear program. His remarks are being viewed as an effort by Tehran to temper growing public expectations.

Both Iran and the U.S. described the recent talks held in Oman as “positive.” Since then, expectations among Iranians have surged, with many hoping for economic relief. Reactions on social media and phone calls suggest that people believe the end of long-standing sanctions and foreign pressure might be near.

The two countries are set to meet again in Oman on April 19. In the meantime, Iran’s troubled currency, the rial, has gained approximately 20% against the U.S. dollar.

However, Khamenei issued a word of caution, saying, “Negotiations are merely a process; the initial steps have been successfully implemented. But whether or not there will be an outcome is still uncertain. We should proceed with caution and not tie the fate of the country solely to these talks.”

He further emphasized, “We must clearly define our red lines in these negotiations — both for ourselves and for them.”

In 2018, former President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers and reimposed sanctions. This led to severe inflation, unemployment, and a lack of investment in Iran. Amid this economic crisis, Khamenei approved the resumption of negotiations with the U.S., although skepticism toward Trump remains.

Iran’s religious leadership has long used anti-American sentiment as a political tool. However, analysts believe that the harsh economic reality and public suffering have pushed the government toward compromise.

Bottom Line: Khamenei’s recent comments suggest that while a deal remains a possibility, Tehran wants to avoid excessive enthusiasm. Iran appears to be moving forward with a careful balance between realism and strategy.