Iran Orders Nuclear Talks with United States

Tehran: (Web Desk) – Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered the start of nuclear negotiations with the United States, local media reported Monday, following US President Donald Trump’s warnings of possible military action and his deployment of an aircraft carrier group to the Middle East.

The move comes after Iran’s deadly response to anti-government protests last month, which left thousands dead and tens of thousands detained. While Trump has pressed for a deal to curb Iran’s nuclear program, Tehran has insisted it favors diplomacy but will respond decisively to any aggression.

According to Fars news agency, talks will focus on Iran’s nuclear file, though no dates have been specified. Iranian officials said messages are being relayed through regional intermediaries, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei stating that details of the diplomatic process are being finalized.

Trump hopeful of Iran deal despite Tehran’s regional war warning

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that Tehran agrees with the US stance of no nuclear weapons but expects sanctions relief in return, calling a deal possible. Baqaei added that regional support for diplomacy reflects fears that a US strike could escalate into a wider regional conflict, echoing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who warned a US attack would trigger a “regional war.”

The ongoing unrest, sparked by economic hardship, led to large-scale protests in early January. Iranian authorities reported 3,117 deaths, while human rights groups claim over 6,800 protesters were killed. The crackdown has drawn international condemnation, with the EU designating the IRGC as a terrorist organization, a move Tehran has reciprocated.

Baqaei also confirmed that the Iranian foreign ministry has summoned EU ambassadors over the designation and hinted at further responses. Meanwhile, Iranian state media reported the arrest of four foreigners for alleged participation in the protests, as authorities continue mass detentions.

The nuclear talks mark a significant development amid escalating tensions, with diplomacy emerging as the preferred path for both sides despite deep mistrust and the backdrop of severe domestic unrest.