U.S. President Donald Trump said he is willing to meet with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts surrounding the country's nuclear program.
In an interview with Time magazine, Trump also emphasized his preference for negotiation over conflict, even as he refused to rule out the possibility of military action to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. The comments come amid a renewed U.S. push to reach an agreement with Tehran.
Newsweek has reached out to the State Department and Iran's foreign ministry for comment.
Why It Matters
Trump's openness to a face-to-face meeting with Iran's top leadership could represent a significant shift in tone and strategy, especially given decades of hostile rhetoric between the two nations.
While negotiations continue through diplomatic channels, the possibility of a direct encounter suggests that the White House is preparing to test the limits of its diplomatic outreach.
What to Know
Asked by Time magazine whether he would meet with Iran's President or Supreme Leader, Trump responded, "Sure." The brief but direct answer underscores an administration effort to present diplomacy as a credible alternative to conflict, even as pressure on Iran intensifies.
Diplomacy Over Military Action
Trump addressed reports that he blocked an Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear facilities. "I didn't stop them," he said. "But I didn't make it comfortable for them, because I think we can make a deal without the attack." While military action remains an option, Trump emphasized a preference for reaching a negotiated deal to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
Trump Plans Middle East Visit
Trump confirmed this week that he will visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates next month. The announcement comes as tensions surge across the Middle East, with the U.S. deploying more warships and aircraft in response to Iranian threats, escalating its military campaign against the Houthis in Yemen, and as Israel intensifies its strikes in Gaza and Lebanon.
Supreme Leader Urges Caution
Meanwhile, Khamenei has expressed cautious optimism about the ongoing nuclear negotiations. He stated that the initial steps have been positive but emphasized the need for careful progression, noting, "We are neither overly optimistic nor pessimistic regarding them. After all, it is a process which was decided and its first steps have been well implemented." Khamenei also warned that any attack on Iran would be met with a strong response, asserting, "If they commit any mischief, they will surely receive a strong reciprocal blow."
What People Are Saying
Dr Sanam Vakil, director of Middle East and North Africa at Chatham House, told Newsweek: "I do believe that Iran has also floated the idea of a summit that could be appealing to President Trump. The optics of progress could buy time and build momentum for what till be a complicated negotiation."
U.S. President Donald Trump: When asked if he would meet Iran's leaders, he said simply, "Sure."
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said: "We are neither overly optimistic nor pessimistic regarding them. After all, it is a process which was decided and its first steps have been well implemented."
What Happens Next
With a third round of technical negotiations approaching and a presidential visit to the region in the works, the U.S. is deepening its diplomatic and military footprint in the Middle East—raising both the stakes and the prospects for a breakthrough.
