Iran Dismisses Prospects of Trump-Khamenei Meeting Amid Trust Issues
No Meeting Planned Between Trump and Khamenei
A senior adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has stated that a meeting with US President Donald Trump is unlikely. Mohsen Rezaei, who serves as a military adviser to Khamenei, emphasized that Trump has not established enough trust with Tehran, leading to a stalemate in negotiations. This statement follows Trump's recent comments expressing a willingness to meet Khamenei if an agreement could be reached. On June 3, Trump mentioned, "I don't want to meet, but if I did meet, I'd be honoured to meet him. I'd like to see if we make a deal, but if we make a deal, it's possible that I would meet him. I'd be okay with it," during a press briefing at the White House.
Trust-Building Measures Required
'Trump Must Pass A Test Of Trust'
In a CNN interview, Rezaei stated that for negotiations to progress, the US must take tangible actions. He suggested that Washington should release $24 billion in Iranian assets that are currently frozen overseas. Rezaei characterized this sum as relatively minor for the US but vital for Iran. He remarked, "This is a sign of trust-building. If Trump takes the negotiations seriously, $24 billion is not much to America. If Trump wants to reach an agreement with Iran, this $24 billion is a test of trust that Iran wants to have. This is the test that America must pass and the path will be open. This is our own money, not America's."
Call for Ending Naval Blockade
Iran Demands End To Strait Of Hormuz Blockade
Rezaei also urged the US to lift what he termed a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that such an action would signify goodwill and help restore trust between the nations. He argued that releasing frozen assets and easing maritime restrictions could pave the way for a breakthrough in the stalled discussions.
Warning of Escalation
'We Will Expand The War If Conflict Continues'
Rezaei issued a serious warning, indicating that Iran is ready for a prolonged conflict if negotiations do not progress. He claimed that Tehran could extend the conflict beyond the Gulf region and target US military bases in a wider area. "If the war continues and the naval blockade is not lifted, we will drag the war to the Indian Ocean, to the Bab al-Mandab, to the Red Sea and the Mediterranean, and give another dimension to the war by attacking these other American bases," he stated. Furthermore, he advised Trump to make decisions free from Israeli influence, suggesting that a more autonomous US stance could enhance relations with Tehran. Rezaei concluded by urging Trump to prioritize the interests of the American populace over personal or political motives, which he believes could facilitate the resolution of longstanding issues between the two nations.