In Khamenei’s view, the United States’ insistence on entering into negotiations is only designed to impose its own conditions and exert pressure on Iran. The Supreme Leader warned that giving in to such pressure would not only weaken the stability of the regime, but would also encourage Iran’s enemies. This rejection comes against a backdrop of growing tensions between the United States and Iran, particularly after Trump reimposed tough economic sanctions designed to reduce Iranian oil exports to zero.
In response, Iran has violated several of the nuclear restrictions imposed by the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the 2015 nuclear deal signed between Iran and six major world powers. After the United States unilaterally withdrew from the agreement in 2018, Iran began to increase its uranium enrichment beyond the limits set, exacerbating tensions with the West.
Criticism of Europe and the role of the major powers
Khamenei did not spare the European countries, whom he described as ‘shameless’, accusing them of failing to honour their commitments after the unilateral withdrawal of the United States from the nuclear agreement in 2018. In particular, he pointed the finger at the E3 countries (France, the UK and Germany), responsible for the failure to maintain the agreement after Trump’s exit.
However, despite these tensions, Iran is planning to take part in trilateral nuclear talks with China and Russia in Beijing tomorrow, on 14 March 2025, just after rejecting Trump’s negotiating proposal. This meeting is viewed as an effort by Iran to strengthen its international alliances while maintaining a firm stance toward the United States.
Regional and global implications
This rejection of negotiations could lead to an intensification of regional tensions. Israel, which has always vowed to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, has not ruled out pre-emptive strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities. Neighbouring countries, in particular the Gulf States, which are already wary of Iran’s growing influence, may need to strengthen their military capacity in response to the perceived threat. Saudi Arabia, for example, has suggested that it might consider acquiring nuclear capabilities if Iran pursues its programme.
From an international perspective, this rejection complicates efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The Biden administration had expressed its desire to re-engage Iran diplomatically, but Iran’s hardline stance, combined with Trump’s aggressive rhetoric, makes the resumption of negotiations increasingly uncertain. European countries, which have tried to play a mediating role, are also caught up in this diplomatic stalemate, with increased risks for Middle East security.
Towards escalation or dialogue?
Faced with such a tense situation, the coming months are likely to see more punitive action, including tighter sanctions or even military confrontation. As Iran continues to expand its nuclear programme, the international community finds itself at a crossroads: relaunch diplomatic dialogue or prepare for further instability in the region.
Iran, insisting on its sovereign right to nuclear development, remains firm on its position, while the Western powers are trying to prevent Tehran from crossing the nuclear threshold. Both sides remain inflexible, and the possibility of a new international crisis seems increasingly likely.
