IRAN: Iran is pushing for indirect talks with the US, rejecting President Donald Trump's demand for direct negotiations over its nuclear program. A senior Iranian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that Iran wants to continue indirect negotiations through Oman, a longtime channel for messages between the two rival states.
The move comes amid rising tensions between the two countries, with the US threatening military action against Iran. The Iranian official warned neighboring countries hosting US bases that they could be in the firing line if involved in any potential strikes. "Indirect talks offer a chance to evaluate Washington's seriousness about a political solution with Iran," the official said.
Warnings to Neighboring Countries
Iran has issued notices to Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Turkey, and Bahrain, stating that any support for a US attack on Iran, including the use of their airspace or territory by the US military, would be considered an act of hostility. Such an act "will have severe consequences for them," the official said, adding that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had placed Iran's armed forces on high alert.
These warnings have sent shockwaves across the region, with worries of a wider regional conflagration unsettling states around the Gulf. The region has already seen open warfare in Gaza and Lebanon, military strikes on Yemen, a change of leadership in Syria, and Israeli-Iranian exchanges of fire.
International Reactions
Russia, a key ally of Iran, has condemned US threats of military strikes, calling for restraint. However, Iran remains skeptical about Moscow's commitment to its ally, citing the dynamics of the relationship between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
In response to Iran's warnings, Kuwait has reassured Iran that it will not accept any aggressive action being directed at other countries from its soil. Turkey's Foreign Ministry said it was not aware of a warning but acknowledged that such messages could be conveyed through other channels.
Diplomatic Efforts
Iranian Foreign Affairs Minister Abbas Araghchi has embarked on a diplomatic tour of Middle Eastern countries to persuade leaders to bar Israel from using their airspace in any potential retaliation against Iran. Araghchi met with Jordanian King Abdullah II and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, who reiterated that Jordan will not allow its airspace to be violated.
As tensions continue to escalate, the prospect of indirect talks between Iran and the US offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, and the international community remains on high alert, watching for any developments that could impact regional stability
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