U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that Iran has asked whether U.S. sanctions could be lifted, signaling a potential diplomatic opening between the longtime rivals. Speaking at the White House, Trump said he was “open to hearing” Iran’s requests but offered no timeline or conditions. The remarks come amid heightened regional tension following a brief war between Iran and Israel earlier this year.
Why It Matters:
Lifting or easing sanctions would mark a major shift in U.S. policy toward Tehran. Trump reinstated his “maximum pressure” campaign after beginning his second term, including strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and tighter economic restrictions. Any talks on sanctions relief could reshape the balance of power in the Middle East and influence global oil markets.
Iran’s mission to the UN has not commented, but Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei recently ruled out cooperation with Washington as long as it supports Israel and maintains a military presence in the region. Western governments remain wary of Iran’s uranium enrichment program, a core dispute that derailed previous nuclear negotiations.
What’s Next:
While Trump’s comments hint at possible engagement, deep mistrust and ongoing disagreements over Iran’s nuclear ambitions make swift progress unlikely. Any move toward sanctions relief would require concrete guarantees from Tehran on limiting its nuclear activity something it has so far refused to accept.
With information from Reuters.
