An urgent meeting took place in Iran last month as officials considered a response to President Trump's letter proposing nuclear negotiations. The meeting included Iran's president, judiciary head, Parliament leaders, and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has previously condemned engagement with Washington as unwise. In an unusual move, senior officials urged Khamenei to allow negotiations, warning that refusal could threaten the regime's stability amid a struggling economy and the risk of military action from the U.S. and Israel.
During the meeting, officials highlighted the dire state of Iran's economy, including a plummeting currency and shortages of essential resources. They cautioned that failure to engage in talks could lead to military strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, which would result in retaliation and potentially escalate into a wider conflict, further destabilizing the regime.
At the conclusion of the hours-long discussion, Khamenei agreed to permit negotiations, initially through intermediaries, with the possibility of direct talks if progress was made. Iran formally responded to Trump's letter on March 28, indicating its readiness to negotiate.
The first round of talks is scheduled to occur in Oman, where the U.S. and Iran will engage in discussions. While Iran insists that negotiations will remain indirect, the U.S. has indicated a willingness to meet directly. The outcome of these discussions carries significant implications for both nations.
Former diplomat Hossein Mousavian remarked that Khamenei's decision reflects a prioritization of regime preservation. President Trump reiterated his stance on military action against Iran if negotiations do not proceed effectively, emphasizing his desire for Iran to thrive without nuclear weapons.
The talks are set against a backdrop of shifting global dynamics, including the weakening of Iranian-backed militias and changes in alliances. Iran's relationships with Russia and China, both key allies, have been called into question as the U.S. has engaged directly with Russia and pressured China regarding its oil purchases from Iran.
Senior officials conveyed to Khamenei that a combination of war and economic collapse could lead to uncontrollable chaos. The Iranian government has announced new power cuts and faced severe water shortages, exacerbating domestic unrest.
Iran's delegation will be led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, while the U.S. will be represented by special envoy Steve Witkoff. The initial meeting aims to establish a framework for negotiations, with potential for direct discussions if successful.
Iran's nuclear program has progressed significantly since the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal, with enrichment levels rising. While Iran maintains that its nuclear ambitions are peaceful, U.S. intelligence suggests otherwise. Khamenei has set parameters for discussions, agreeing to nuclear talks while asserting that Iran's missile program is off limits.
Iran is open to discussing its regional policies and the influence it wields over militant groups, indicating a willingness to ease tensions in the region. Khamenei has appointed key advisers to oversee negotiations with the U.S. and coordinate with the foreign ministry.
In a sign of potential easing, Khamenei has indicated openness to American investment in Iran's economy. Recent news of the upcoming talks has generated positive reactions in Iran, with a slight increase in the value of the rial and a surge in the stock market.
Experts suggest that the current moment presents a unique opportunity for a lasting agreement between the U.S. and Iran, emphasizing the urgency for dialogue to address complex issues and high stakes involved.