Iran’s President Orders Direct Talks with US: ‘Right Climate Exists’

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has instructed Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to begin immediate negotiations with the United States, reportedly set to take place on February 6 in Turkey. Speaking on X, Pezeshkian emphasized that talks must occur under a ‘suitable climate—free from threats or unreasonable demands’ and aligned with Iran’s national interests. The discussions are facilitated by Egypt, Qatar, Oman, and Turkey. US envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to represent the Trump administration. This diplomatic shift follows weeks of mutual threats and escalating regional tensions, including US naval deployments to the Gulf and Iran’s crackdown on anti-government protests. While Western nations accuse Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons—a claim Tehran denies—the core dispute remains uranium enrichment. Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful and compliant with the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), demanding sanctions relief in exchange for verifiable guarantees against weaponization. Araghchi affirmed on Sunday: ‘We fully agree with Trump’s “no nuclear weapons” stance—and this agreement is therefore feasible.’