Khamenei authorized President Masoud Pezeshkian to send a letter to former U.S. President Donald Trump, signaling Iran’s readiness to resume nuclear talks. The letter was delivered through Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during his visit to Washington on November 18.
Former lawmaker Mostafa Kavakebian confirmed that Khamenei approved the outreach. Pezeshkian’s message emphasized that Iran wants to negotiate without preconditions or external dictates. “We are willing to sit down and discuss issues together,” Kavakebian said. “This is a message of engagement, not surrender.”
The letter reportedly influenced Trump’s public remarks, in which he noted that Tehran wanted a deal. Trump said, “Iran does want to make a deal. I think they very badly want to make a deal. We start a process.”
Iranian officials, however, denied that Pezeshkian’s letter involved Saudi mediation. Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said the correspondence was a routine bilateral note related to Hajj coordination. “The issue of a mediator is not on the table,” Baghaei added.
Khamenei’s authorization highlights Iran’s strategic approach to diplomacy. Earlier this year, U.S.-Iran nuclear talks stalled after a 60-day ultimatum. On June 13, Israel carried out strikes against Iranian nuclear sites, followed by U.S. involvement in targeting facilities in Esfahan, Natanz, and Fordow. Tehran has repeatedly denied seeking nuclear weapons and insists its nuclear program is legal under international law.
Analysts say Khamenei’s decision to allow Pezeshkian’s letter reflects a careful balance between domestic politics and international diplomacy. It also underscores the importance of Saudi-Iran relations in shaping regional security.
The next steps in these discussions depend on both Washington and Tehran. Observers note that Khamenei’s move opens a window for potential negotiations, which could reduce regional tensions and stabilize political and economic conditions.
Khamenei’s authorization signals that Iran remains committed to diplomatic channels, while carefully managing the complexities of the Middle East.