‘If Trump is genuine, he should…,’ Iran demands respect for Khamenei before talks can proceed
Tehran: Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has issued a stark warning to the United States, stating that President Donald Trump must adopt a more respectful tone towards Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei if Washington truly seeks a deal with Tehran.
Speaking on social media platform X, Araghchi emphasised that Iran does not tolerate threats or insults, urging the Trump administration to reconsider its approach if it is serious about engaging in diplomacy. "If President Trump is genuine about wanting a deal, he should put aside the disrespectful and unacceptable tone towards Iran's Supreme Leader, Grand Ayatollah Khamenei, and stop hurting his millions of heartfelt followers," Araghchi wrote.
He underscored Iran’s resilience, drawing a metaphor from Persian craftsmanship: “The complexity and tenacity of Iranians are famously known in our magnificent carpets, woven through countless hours of hard work and patience. But as a people, our basic premise is very simple and straightforward: we know our worth, value our independence, and never allow anyone else to decide our destiny.”
Araghchi also referenced recent tensions with Israel, stating, “The Great and Powerful Iranian People, who showed the world that the Israeli regime had NO CHOICE but to RUN to 'Daddy' to avoid being flattened by our Missiles, do not take kindly to Threats and Insults. If Illusions lead to worse mistakes, Iran will not hesitate to unveil its Real Capabilities, which will certainly END any Delusion about the Power of Iran.”
He concluded with a diplomatic note: “Good will begets good will, and respect begets respect.”
These remarks come against the backdrop of renewed diplomatic murmurs between Washington and Tehran. On Thursday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt signalled a potential shift in tone, saying that the Trump administration remains committed to diplomacy and peace.
Speaking at a press briefing, Leavitt confirmed ongoing indirect communication with Iranian officials. “I spoke to our special envoy Witkoff at length this morning and I can assure all of you we continue to be in close communication with the Iranians and through our intermediaries as well, namely the Qataris, who have been an incredible ally and partner throughout this entire effort,” she said.
“Our goal remains a diplomatic resolution that ensures Iran agrees to a non-enrichment civil nuclear programme.”
Her comments came in the wake of the US launching precision strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities under the recently concluded Operation Midnight Hammer--a move which has added further strain to already delicate relations.