Iran signals conditional openness to talks with U.S. amid diplomatic uncertainty

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian says he has directed the country’s foreign minister to explore negotiations with the United States, provided talks take place under what he described as fair and respectful conditions.

In a message posted Tuesday on social media platform X, Pezeshkian said discussions would only proceed if the diplomatic environment is free of threats or what he called unreasonable demands. He said any engagement must be guided by national dignity, prudence, and Iran’s broader interests.

The remarks mark the clearest public indication so far that Iran’s new reformist administration may be open to participating in talks reportedly being facilitated by Turkey. While Tehran has previously expressed skepticism about U.S. intentions, Pezeshkian’s statement suggests a potential shift toward cautious diplomatic engagement.

Relations between Iran and the United States have remained strained for years, particularly following Washington’s withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement and the reimposition of sanctions. Efforts to revive negotiations have stalled amid regional tensions and disagreements over Iran’s nuclear program.

Observers say any renewed dialogue would face significant challenges, but even conditional signals from Tehran are being closely watched by regional partners and the international community as conflicts across the Middle East continue to evolve.