US‑Iran tensions rise as nuclear negotiation hopes falter
Iran has not yet received a letter from the USA proposing negotiations regarding its nuclear programme, as reported by Iran's representation at the UN. Previously, the Iranian news agency, associated with the Supreme National Security Council, expressed scepticism about President Donald Trump’s proposal.
According to the Reuters agency, the Iranian news agency Nour News, linked to the Supreme National Security Council, commented on the American proposal as "repetitive show" and fitting into the pattern of behaviour characteristic of Trump.
"Trump's pattern in foreign policy: slogans, threats, temporary actions, and retreat!" - wrote the agency on social media.
In a Friday interview with Fox News, US President Donald Trump stated that on Wednesday he sent a letter to the authorities of Iran in which he expressed hope for starting negotiations on the Iranian nuclear programme. The letter was addressed to Iran's highest spiritual and political leader, Ali Khamenei.
"Maximum pressure" policy
The American Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, announced that Washington would continue the policy of "maximum pressure" on Tehran. The goal is to collapse Iranian oil exports and weaken the Iranian currency. Since the beginning of his presidency, Trump has signalled a tightening approach towards Iran while publicly expressing willingness to negotiate.
The USA has long suspected that Iran’s nuclear programme also has a military dimension. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated that the USA and Iran should start a dialogue. According to the IAEA, Iran's stockpile of fissile materials has recently increased by more than 50 per cent, which is enough to produce six atomic bombs.
