Iran"s Khamenei signals potential US nuclear talks amid red lines

Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, indicated a willingness to engage in negotiations with the United States regarding Iran's nuclear program during a meeting with President Masoud Pezeshkian's Cabinet. Khamenei emphasized that while interaction with the U.S. is possible, trust should not be placed in the 'enemy.' His remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, which has seen Iran and Israel involved in escalating military actions. The backdrop of these discussions includes the U.S. presidential election scheduled for November 5, where Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are the leading candidates. Khamenei's comments may provide Pezeshkian with the political support needed to pursue negotiations, a key aspect of his campaign. However, the potential for a renewed deal is complicated by Iran's threats to pursue atomic weapons and the U.S. State Department's cautious stance, emphasizing that actions will be judged over words. Khamenei's history of fluctuating between advocating for talks and dismissing them reflects the complex dynamics of Iran's foreign policy. The RANE Network has suggested that if Harris wins, the chances of a diplomatic resolution could improve as the Israel-Hamas conflict subsides. Nevertheless, any negotiations would likely require Iran to seek assurances against future U.S. withdrawals from agreements, given the precedent set by Trump's exit from the 2015 nuclear deal. The meeting also featured former Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who played a crucial role in the 2015 agreement. Zarif's continued involvement in Pezeshkian's administration signals a potential continuity in Iran's approach to diplomacy, even as the nation navigates a precarious geopolitical landscape.