In an apparent attempt to downplay rising public expectations of a settlement, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated on Tuesday that he was neither “overly optimistic nor pessimistic” about negotiations with the US over Iran’s nuclear program.
Even if Tehran later paints Washington as the responsible party, Iranian lawmakers and insiders have warned that the Islamic Republic could suffer greatly if a deal with President Donald Trump is not reached to resolve Iran’s long-running conflict with the West.
According to Iranians contacted by phone and remarks shared on social media, Iranian expectations of economic relief have skyrocketed following last weekend’s negotiations between Tehran and Washington in Oman, which both parties characterized as good.
More negotiations between the two parties are scheduled for April 19 in Oman.
Many Iranians believe a solution to ease Iran’s economic isolation may be within reach, as the battered rial currency has risen about 20% against the dollar in recent days.
“With regard to them, we are neither unduly hopeful nor pessimistic. In a meeting with MPs, Khamenei stated, “After all, it is a process which was decided and its first steps have been well implemented,” according to state media.
Given that Trump renounced Tehran’s 2015 nuclear accord with the six powers, Tehran has approached the negotiations with skepticism, questioning the possibility of an agreement.
Red lines must be clearly drawn for us and the other side, and the discussions must be carefully carried out from this point on. Khamenei stated that the conversations might or might not result in outcomes.
“Avoid associating these negotiations with the destiny of the nation.”
Enmity toward the United States has long been a focal point for Iran’s clerical leadership, ever since relations with Washington broke down during the Islamic revolution in 1979 that overthrew the US-backed Shah.
However, once Trump abandoned the 2015 nuclear accord, punishing sanctions that led to inflation, unemployment, and a lack of investment convinced Khamenei to back discussions with the Trump administration.
