Tehran Seeks Renewed Talks On Nuclear Deal With Washington Amidst Rising Tensions

Tehran: Amidst growing tensions, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for a renewed dialogue with the United States over the nuclear program. Iran's state-affiliated Fars News Agency confirmed the reports. The surprising development comes amidst heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, leading to a military build-up by the US Navy near Iran.

Notably, the US naval fleet was deployed to the region following President Donald Trump's threats to carry out a military strike against Iran, in response to the violent crackdown on anti-government demonstrations in the country.

The tension between the US and Iran escalated after a deadly crackdown on the protests in Iran, resulting in the deaths of thousands of protesters. The protests, which marked the deadliest domestic unrest in Iran since the 1979 Islamic revolution, have escalated tensions with the US, raising concerns of a major conflict. The Trump administration has been vocal about its demands for Iran to make nuclear concessions, and the recent military build-up has only added to the sense of urgency.

Despite the hostile situation, both sides have signalled a willingness to negotiate and discuss the issue, with Trump expressing optimism about reaching a deal. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has also hinted at a possible agreement, stating that Iran is ready to participate in fair and just nuclear talks. However, Tehran has made it clear that it will not be dictated to, and any negotiations must be free from preconditions.

The European Union (EU) has welcomed the development, with officials urging diplomacy to prevent the conflict. Furthermore, the regional powers, including Turkey, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, have also called for restraint and dialogue.

Tensions Run High Between US And Iran

The latest move by Iran's President Pezeshkian has led to a series of diplomatic activity, with regional leaders pushing for a peaceful resolution. The Iranian government has acknowledged the deaths of nearly 3000 people in the protests, but human rights groups claimed the figure was higher. The EU's decision to label the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization has further strained relations, with Tehran summoning EU ambassadors and warning of additional responses.

The Trump administration has been accused of playing a game of brinkmanship, with some analysts warning that a military conflict is becoming increasingly likely. The US has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East, and additional forces are expected to arrive in the coming weeks. Iran has vowed to respond strongly to any aggression, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warning that a US strike would trigger a "regional war".

However, despite threats and warnings from both sides, there are signs that both sides are willing to talk. Araghchi has stated that Iran is open to negotiations, but will not accept ultimatums. Trump too has expressed hope for a deal, saying, "I believe no country is prepared to compromise on its own security or its national defense". Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has offered to facilitate talks between the US and Iran, while Egypt and Saudi Arabia have also called for restraint.

Khamenei Warns Of ‘Regional War’

Earlier, a day before, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned the US that any attack on Iran would spark a regional war, further heightening tensions between the two nations. Khamenei's warning was in response to Trump's threat of military action against Iran following the country's violent crackdown on anti-government protests. Khamenei stated, "The Americans should know that if they start a war, this time it will be a regional war." He further added that Iranians should not be scared of Trump's rhetoric.

Following Iran's Supreme Leader's warning, Trump responded, saying he is hopeful of a deal, but warned, “If we don't make a deal, then we'll find out whether or not he was right.”

The US has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group, led by the USS Abraham Lincoln, to the Middle East, amid rising tensions. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has expressed concern about miscalculations but believes Trump is "wise enough to make the correct decision". In the meantime, the EU has listed Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation, prompting Iran to retaliate with similar designations for the European armies.