Iran's President Signals Willingness to Negotiate with the U.S.

Tue Feb 03 2026 20:59:22 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian announces readiness for talks with the U.S., citing regional requests and emphasizing conditions for a favorable negotiation environment.

In recent comments, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian affirmed Iran's readiness to engage in negotiations with the U.S., following appeals from friendly regional governments. He emphasized that talks must occur in a constructive atmosphere devoid of threats. This announcement comes against a backdrop of heightened tensions, as U.S. President Donald Trump warns of potential interventions due to Iran's nuclear ambitions. The negotiations are set to convene in Istanbul soon.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that Iran will pursue negotiations with the United States after requests from 'friendly governments in the region' to respond to a U.S. proposal for talks.

In a statement on X, Pezeshkian revealed that he instructed Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abbas Araghchi, to undertake discussions 'provided that a suitable environment exists - one free from threats and unreasonable expectations.'

The Iranian president's remarks follow a warning from the country's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, that any attack on Iran would prompt a regional conflict. U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened action over Iran's nuclear ambitions and its crackdown on protests, increasing military presence in the region.

'These negotiations shall be conducted within the framework of our national interests,' Pezeshkian added, indicating that the talks will occur in Istanbul, according to reports from U.S. media.

Pezeshkian's announcement aligns with a recent interview where Araghchi expressed confidence in achieving a deal. Trump commented that if an agreement can be reached, it would be 'great,' but cautioned that 'bad things would happen' if negotiations fail.

The tensions escalated after the U.S. executed targeted strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities last year, affecting regional stability and security. Trump highlighted the significant military buildup heading to Iran, indicating a serious commitment to maintaining pressure on the Iranian government.

The context of these negotiations includes widespread protests in Iran, which began over economic grievances but escalated into calls for political change, leading to a brutal crackdown by Iranian security forces that resulted in significant casualties. Reports estimate the death toll could exceed 25,000 as protests are rooted deeply in public discontent.