Supreme Leader Says Tehran Will Not Accept ‘Excessive Demands’
TEHRAN: Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said on Thursday that Iran would not submit to what he described as the “excessive demands” of the United States during future negotiations, while defending his decision to approve the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Tehran and Washington.
In a series of posts on X, Khamenei stated that he initially held reservations about the agreement. However, he said he granted approval after receiving assurances from President Masoud Pezeshkian and members of the Supreme National Security Council that Iran’s national interests and the objectives of the Resistance Front would be protected.
Furthermore, Khamenei argued that the United States had actively pushed for the agreement, claiming Washington used multiple forms of leverage to bring the negotiations to a conclusion.
He emphasized that direct engagement with the United States should not be interpreted as acceptance of Washington’s position and said Iran would evaluate the agreement based on its practical outcomes.
Agreement Opens Door to Extended Negotiations
The MoU was formally signed on Thursday by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. According to officials, US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also digitally signed the agreement.
The deal establishes a 60-day negotiation period aimed at reaching a broader settlement covering key issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei reiterated that Iran’s nuclear materials would remain inside the country. He said the agreement allows for uranium dilution under supervision rather than transferring nuclear materials abroad.
Baghaei also warned that continued Israeli military actions in Lebanon would be viewed by Tehran as a violation of commitments linked to the agreement.
Missile Programme Remains Off the Table
Additionally, Baghaei stressed that Iran’s ballistic missile programme remains non-negotiable and would not be included in any future talks.
He maintained that Iran’s defence capabilities are sovereign matters and insisted they would not be discussed with any foreign party as negotiations continue over the coming weeks.
