Sun Mar 23 20:53:00 UTC 2025: ## US Seeks New Nuclear Deal with Iran, Khamenei Rejects Offer

**Washington, D.C., March 24, 2025** – The United States is attempting to negotiate a new nuclear deal with Iran, with President Donald Trump personally reaching out to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, Khamenei has dismissed the offer as a “deception,” asserting that negotiations with the Trump administration would only increase pressure on Iran.

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff stated on Sunday that the outreach aims to avoid military conflict, emphasizing a preference for diplomatic solutions. He warned that the alternative to a negotiated settlement is undesirable. This follows a letter from President Trump earlier this month, presenting Iran with a choice between a deal and military action.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif echoed Khamenei’s skepticism, clarifying that Iran’s resistance to talks stems from past experiences with the U.S., not stubbornness. He suggested the U.S. needs to adjust its policy before meaningful negotiations can occur. While stating Iran would respond to the “threats and opportunities” presented in Trump’s letter, Zarif also indicated that the 2015 nuclear deal, from which Trump withdrew in 2018, is unlikely to be revived in its current form due to Iran’s advancements in its nuclear program.

Conversely, White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz stated that the U.S. seeks complete dismantlement of Iran’s nuclear program. He reiterated President Trump’s assertion that all options are on the table and that Iran must abandon its nuclear ambitions.

International concern is growing, as UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi recently warned that time is running out to reach an agreement, given Iran’s increasing uranium enrichment. Despite seeking a deal, the Trump administration has simultaneously maintained its “maximum pressure” campaign, imposing four rounds of sanctions on Iranian oil sales since January. The situation remains tense, with the possibility of military action looming if diplomacy fails.

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