Iran Signals Diplomatic Shift Amid Tensions

Iran's president instructs the foreign minister to pursue negotiations with the US amid heightened tensions following a recent crackdown on protests. This diplomatic shift suggests support from Iran's Supreme Leader, but recent military incidents raise uncertainty about the potential for successful talks.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has signaled a willingness to engage in diplomatic negotiations with the United States, instructing his foreign minister to pursue talks with Washington. This marks a significant shift in Tehran's stance amidst rising tensions following a harsh crackdown on domestic protests.

Despite this call for diplomacy, a recent incident involving a US fighter jet shooting down an Iranian drone near an American aircraft carrier adds friction to the situation. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, traditionally dismissive of talks with the US, appears to back Pezeshkian's move.

Turkey has offered to facilitate the discussions, although the specific location remains uncertain. While US President Donald Trump has included Iran's nuclear activities in the conditions for any negotiations, there remains skepticism about reaching a conclusive agreement, especially following military escalations in June.

(With inputs from agencies.)