Diplomatic relations with Iran could be revitalised if US President Donald Trump instructs Israel to cease its military actions against the nation, according to Iranian presidential official Majid Farahani. Speaking to CNN, Farahani expressed Iran’s preference for dialogue and stressed that negotiations cannot occur while Israel conducts airstrikes on Iranian territory. He believes a simple phone call from Trump to Israeli leaders could halt the ongoing conflict.
Farahani affirmed that Iran is not willing to halt its nuclear enrichment, which it insists is for peaceful purposes, although he indicated that the level of enrichment might be negotiable. This stance comes amidst increasing pressure from European powers and a unified call for a complete ban on Iranian uranium enrichment, with France explicitly advocating for “zero enrichment” in discussions.
The context of these developments is significant, as Trump’s recent decision to extend a negotiating window prior to any potential military action against Iran could pave the way for a resolution. Amidst the heightened tensions, direct talks have resumed between foreign ministers from Iran, the UK, France, Germany, and the EU, marking the first face-to-face discussions since the conflict escalated.
Furthermore, Farahani warned that if the US decides to engage militarily, Iran has numerous strategies ready to deploy. This threat resonates amid protests in Tehran where demonstrators expressed anger towards Israel and the US, waving flags of Iran, Hezbollah, and Palestine, while burning US and Israeli flags. Chants demanding the death of both nations echoed through the streets, showcasing the deep-seated animosity felt by many Iranians towards ongoing military actions.
In conclusion, the path to peace might be unsteady, but diplomatic dialogue seems viable, contingent upon changes in military strategies from Israel and responsive engagements from the US.