Former US President Donald Trump has given Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei a two-month deadline to negotiate a new nuclear deal, according to a report by Axios. The letter, which outlines the terms for negotiation, was reportedly delivered through diplomatic channels involving Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and the President of the UAE, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The UAE passed the letter on to Iranian officials.
Trump has consistently expressed his preference for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing nuclear dispute with Iran but warned of potential alternative measures if Iran fails to engage in talks. A National Security Council spokesperson, Brian Hughes, confirmed the urgency of the deadline, stating that Trump wants the issue resolved diplomatically “and very soon.”
Also Read: Over 200 Palestinians Killed as Gaza Ceasefire Breaks Amid Trump Administration’s Watch
The delivery of the letter comes amid escalating concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Trump also discussed the matter with Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting the importance of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Both leaders agreed on the need for continued cooperation in the Middle East to avoid future conflicts.
Since withdrawing from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, Trump’s administration has pursued a “maximum pressure” strategy, imposing severe sanctions on Iran. Despite calls for negotiations, Ayatollah Khamenei has remained resistant, recently rejecting what he described as “bullying tactics” from the US.
Iranian officials have confirmed they are reviewing Trump’s letter, but Khamenei’s firm stance against further talks raises doubts about the likelihood of a new agreement. Trump, however, remains hopeful for a peaceful resolution, telling Fox News that he prefers to make a deal over pursuing military action.
