Combination photo of US President Donald Trump (left) and Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. AP
Trump dismissed Khamenei's remarks, saying, “Of course he is going to say that. Hopefully, we'll make a deal. If we don't make a deal, then we'll find out whether or not he was right.”
The comments come amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran, following the US deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and other warships to the region, which the US claims is in response to Iran's violent crackdown on protests. The US has used the crackdown, which has subsided in recent weeks, as justification for its increased military presence.
Meanwhile, Iran is set to conduct live-fire military drills in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade. The US Central Command has warned Iran not to threaten American ships or disrupt commercial shipping during the exercises.
While Trump has expressed hope that diplomacy can resolve tensions, particularly over Iran's nuclear programme, his administration has continued ramping up military deterrence. Tehran has warned that even a limited strike could provoke a broad response.
Tensions have been further exacerbated by renewed US sanctions on Iran’s nuclear programme and Israeli airstrikes on both military and civilian targets in Iran last year, which resulted in hundreds of deaths and widespread damage. The US later joined Israel in targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities.
The ongoing unrest in Iran has led to significant casualties, though figures remain unclear due to limited access and internet shutdowns. Thousands have been killed in the violent crackdown, including civilians, while the US has repeatedly hinted at military intervention.
Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate have intensified, with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman working to mediate between Washington and Tehran. These countries have urged both sides to de-escalate, warning that there is no military solution to the crisis. Gulf nations are increasingly concerned about retaliatory strikes, energy disruptions, and potential displacement.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Friday that Tehran was open to dialogue over its nuclear programme, but only if Washington ends its aggressive stance. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also stated that any talks would depend on the US halting its "belligerent conduct."
Turkey has offered to mediate, with President Tayyip Erdogan saying the country is ready to facilitate dialogue between the US and Iran. Egypt has also stepped up efforts, with Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty holding talks with both US and Iranian officials, urging de-escalation.
Pezeshkian, during a call with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, reiterated Tehran’s commitment to high-level coordination with Cairo to prevent further escalation.
Short link: