Why it matters:
The message marks the Leader's first public stance on the Islamabad agreement, outlining the conditions under which Tehran agreed to proceed while reaffirming its commitment to protecting the rights of the Iranian nation and the Resistance Front.
The big picture:
The memorandum of understanding was signed following extensive negotiations between Iranian and U.S. officials.
The statement underscores Tehran's insistence that any future engagement with Washington must not come at the expense of Iran's national interests.
What he's saying:
Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei:
“As a matter of principle, I held a different view; however, out of the commitment that the esteemed president gave regarding safeguarding the rights of the Iranian nation and the Resistance Front, I granted my permission.”
“He explicitly stated that if the American side seeks to make excessive demands, they will not submit to them.”
“From this moment on, we—that is, you, the proud nation, and this humble servant—will await the realization of the aforementioned conditions.”
“The in-person negotiations that will take place in the future will not mean acceptance of the enemy's position.”
Go deeper:
The memorandum was signed amid heightened tensions following the U.S.-Israeli war of aggression against Iran and months of regional instability.
Iranian officials have repeatedly stressed that diplomacy must be accompanied by guarantees protecting Iran's sovereignty, security, and strategic interests.
Mojtaba Darabi - ahmad shirzadian
