Iran’s Khamenei rejects US talks after UAE delivers Trump letter

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday dismissed the prospect of negotiations with the United States over a nuclear deal, despite a letter from U.S. President Donald Trump calling for such talks.

The letter was reportedly delivered by a United Arab Emirates envoy, underscoring regional efforts to de-escalate tensions between Tehran and Washington. However, Khamenei firmly rejected the offer, reiterating Iran’s stance that it will not engage with the U.S. under pressure or without clear guarantees.

“The Islamic Republic will not be deceived by empty promises,” Khamenei said in a statement, accusing Washington of acting in bad faith. He added that Iran would continue to pursue its own path in nuclear policy and regional affairs.

Trump has previously expressed interest in renegotiating the 2015 nuclear accord, which he withdrew the U.S. from in 2018, reimposing sanctions that have severely impacted Iran’s economy. Tehran has since gradually rolled back its commitments under the deal, escalating tensions with Western powers.

The rejection of talks signals continued deadlock between the two nations, even as regional players push for diplomacy to prevent further escalation in the Middle East.