Pezeshkian rules out US talks, tells Trump 'Do what you want'
2 Min Read
On Saturday, Iran's Leader reaffirmed the nation's stance that it will not be bullied into negotiations, further pushing back against Trump's diplomatic overtures.
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Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian speaks during an open session of parliament for the impeachment of his Finance Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati, in Tehran, Iran, Sunday, March 2, 2025 (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has ruled out negotiations with the United States under current circumstances, stating that Tehran will not engage in talks while under threats.
In comments reported by Iranian state media on Tuesday, he directly addressed Donald Trump, saying, "It is unacceptable for us that they [the US] give orders and make threats. I won't even negotiate with you. Do whatever the hell you want."
The statement follows Trump's confirmation that he sent a letter to Iran's leadership, urging Tehran to negotiate a new nuclear agreement. Speaking to Fox Business Network, he said, "I hope you're going to negotiate because it's going to be a lot better for Iran."
However, Iran's Leader, Sayyed Ali Khamenei, has rejected the prospect of direct talks, calling them neither "smart, wise, nor honorable." On Saturday, he reaffirmed Iran's stance that it will not be bullied into negotiations, further pushing back against Trump's diplomatic overtures.
Despite claiming he prefers diplomacy, Trump has reinstated his "maximum pressure" campaign, aiming to economically isolate Iran and reduce its oil exports. He framed Iran's choices as either a military confrontation or a deal, saying, "There are two ways Iran can be handled: militarily, or you make a deal."
However, US sanctions remain in place, with no indication of relief despite their devastating effects on Iran's economy since Washington's 2018 withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
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Meanwhile, tensions over Iran's nuclear program continue to escalate. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported that Tehran is enriching uranium up to 60% purity, edging closer to weapons-grade levels.
However, Iran maintains that its nuclear program is strictly peaceful, and has scaled back compliance with the JCPOA only after Washington abandoned the deal and failed to provide sanctions relief.
Iran has also sharply criticized IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi, accusing him of political bias and a lack of neutrality.
Tehran has called on the IAEA to remain impartial and professional, warning that politicizing nuclear inspections could damage the agency's credibility.
