Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Approves US Accord Despite Reservations

Tehran: Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, said he initially had reservations about the memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States. But, it is now approved following the assurances has been received from President Masoud Pezeshkian and senior security officials. Assurance is there that Iran's interests would be protected.

What he spoke about?

Speaking publicly for the first time since the US-Iran draft agreement was signed virtually, Khamenei said he gave the green light after officials promised to safeguard "the rights of the Iranian nation and the resistance front."

"I had a different view regarding the MOU with the US, but due to the commitment of the Iranian president and other members of the Supreme National Security Council, I issued permission," he said.

What concerns he addressed?

Khamenei also addressed concerns from critics opposed to engagement with Washington, saying upcoming talks would not mean Tehran was accepting American demands. "Future in-person negotiations that are going to take place do not mean accepting the enemy's point of view," he said.
He warned that Iran would push back if Washington took an uncompromising stance.

"If the American side wants to be too demanding, we will not accept it," Khamenei said. The remarks offered a rare insight into discussions within Iran's leadership as the country enters a 60-day negotiation period with the United States.