Iran’s president seeks ‘fair and equitable negotiations’ with the United States

Associated Press (AP)CenterEN 4 min read 100% complete by By JON GAMBRELLFebruary 3, 2026 at 07:23 AM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has instructed his foreign minister to pursue negotiations with the United States, signaling a potential shift in Iran's stance amid heightened tensions following recent domestic unrest. This decision, announced on Tuesday, comes after requests from regional governments and apparent support from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who previously opposed such talks. Turkey has been facilitating potential talks to be held later this week, while U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff travels in the region. However, the U.S. has not yet confirmed the talks, and disagreements remain, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear program, which President Trump has included in a list of demands for any talks. Pezeshkian emphasized the need for a suitable environment, free from threats and unreasonable expectations, for the negotiations to proceed.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei 40% Steve Witkoff 50% Masoud Pezeshkian ×260% United States 70% Donald Trump 80% Iran ×290%

Keywords

negotiations 100% iran 90% united states 90% fair and equitable negotiations 80% masoud pezeshkian 70% ali khamenei 60% nuclear program 60% diplomacy 50% mideast 40%