Iran Khamenei says US pushed for Iran deal ‘out of desperation’, insists Tehran will defend its interests

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said that the United States pushed for the recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Tehran and Washington out of what he described as “desperation,” while emphasizing that Iran remains committed to protecting its national interests.

The remarks came during an address to the Iranian nation following the announcement of the Iran-US memorandum, which has drawn significant international attention amid ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries.

Khamenei confirms signing of Iran-US memorandum

In his address, Khamenei confirmed that a memorandum of understanding had been signed between the presidents of Iran and the United States. “As you have become aware, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the presidents of Iran and America,” he said. The statement represents one of the clearest public acknowledgements from Iran’s leadership regarding the recently announced agreement.

Iranian officials worked extensively on negotiations

Khamenei said Iranian officials invested considerable effort in reaching the current stage of negotiations. According to the Supreme Leader, officials pursued the talks with goodwill and a sense of responsibility toward safeguarding the country’s interests. He stated that extensive diplomatic and political efforts preceded the signing of the memorandum.

Claims US sought agreement through pressure

Commenting on Washington’s role in the negotiations, Khamenei claimed that the United States actively pushed for the agreement. He said the American administration resorted to “all available leverage” to bring about the memorandum, arguing that Washington pursued the arrangement out of necessity and desperation. Khamenei added that Iranian officials remain responsible for ensuring that the country’s interests are protected throughout the implementation of the agreement.

Future talks do not mean acceptance of US positions

The Iranian leader stressed that any future face-to-face discussions with American officials should not be interpreted as acceptance of US positions. He said Iran would continue to reject any conditions it considers excessive or beyond acceptable limits. According to Khamenei, Tehran’s participation in dialogue does not signify a change in its core positions regarding national sovereignty and strategic interests.

Khamenei says he had reservations about the deal

Khamenei also disclosed that he personally held a different view regarding the memorandum during the negotiation process. However, he said he approved the agreement after receiving assurances from presidential and security officials that Iran’s rights and the interests of the “Resistance Front” would be safeguarded. The remarks provide new insight into internal deliberations surrounding the decision to approve the memorandum.

Global attention on next steps

The Iran-US memorandum continues to attract international scrutiny as governments and analysts assess its potential implications for regional security, sanctions policy and diplomatic relations.

Further details regarding the implementation of the agreement are expected to emerge as both sides continue engagement in the coming weeks.

Key Takeaways

• Ayatollah Ali Khamenei confirmed the signing of an Iran-US memorandum of understanding.
• He claimed the United States pushed for the agreement out of desperation.
• Khamenei said Washington used all available leverage during negotiations.
• He stressed that future talks with the US do not mean acceptance of American positions.
• Iran will reject any conditions it considers excessive, he said.
• Khamenei revealed he had reservations about the MoU but approved it after receiving assurances from Iranian officials.
• He said Iran’s rights and the interests of the “Resistance Front” would be protected.