Khamenei gives Iran ‘certain powers’ for US talks

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian revealed that Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei had granted the government "certain powers" to engage in negotiations with the United States, aimed at resolving the ongoing Middle East conflict, according to Iran's state news agency, IRNA. Pezeshkian stated, "We are striving to resolve the issue through dialogue.

In this regard, the Supreme Leader has also conferred certain powers on the government." This development occurred following Iran's foreign ministry announcement that Tehran was exchanging messages with Washington through mediators, suggesting a potential diplomatic breakthrough despite ongoing tensions and the threat of renewed conflict.

The diplomatic efforts were set against the backdrop of secretive U.S. strikes on Iran's Qeshm Island, reported by The Wall Street Journal to be part of a limited effort to deter Iran from targeting commercial vessels. These strikes were conducted discreetly to prevent any perception of a return to major combat, as U.S. officials weighed additional military and economic options.

Iran subsequently outlined a two-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume nuclear talks with Washington, contingent upon the U.S. meeting Tehran's demands. This included the restriction of ship routes through the strait to Tehran and Oman, with Iranian oversight, as well as the lifting of the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports, removal of sanctions on Iranian oil sales, and an extension of the ceasefire to Lebanon.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei emphasized that Iran's proposal remained the foundation for negotiations via mediators, portraying it as a testament to Tehran's commitment to a "good-faith approach." However, the specifics of whether Iran had adjusted its demands or whether Washington had acquiesced were not disclosed.

The diplomatic overtures came amid President Donald Trump's oscillation between negotiating and threatening severe military action against Iran.