Context:
Representatives from China, Russia, and Iran have urged the United States to lift sanctions imposed on Iran’s nuclear program. The demand comes as Iran continues rapid advancements in its nuclear capabilities.
U.S. Approach and Trump’s Offer
- Former U.S. President Donald Trump had written a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, proposing renewed negotiations.
- The letter’s contents remain undisclosed, but it coincided with fresh sanctions under Trump’s “maximum pressure” policy.
- The strategy combined economic penalties with the threat of military action, while keeping open the possibility of a new agreement.
Iran’s Response
- Ayatollah Khamenei dismissed Trump’s offer, calling the U.S. a “bullying government” and expressing disinterest in negotiations.
- Iran remains opposed to talks under coercive conditions and seeks an end to economic restrictions before resuming diplomacy.
With tensions high, China and Russia have aligned with Iran, advocating for an end to U.S. sanctions and the resumption of multilateral nuclear talks. However, Iran remains skeptical of U.S. overtures, and diplomatic efforts face significant hurdles.
