Tehran, Iran – The Iranian newspaper Kayhan, considered to be aligned with the conservative wing, interpreted Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei’s complete silence on the nuclear program as a highly significant political signal indicating the end of negotiations on this contentious issue.
The newspaper, which is run under the supervision of the Supreme Leader’s representative, pointed out that Khamenei has not mentioned the nuclear issue in any of his official messages since his appointment as Supreme Leader. Furthermore, he has not included it in his vision for ending the current war.
The newspaper described this approach as a “significant step” and a clear indication that Tehran has completely closed the door on nuclear negotiations following the recent US and Israeli attacks. It also stated that no effort will be made to revive them.
It emphasized that this stance is one of the most important red lines drawn by Mojtaba Khamenei, stressing his refusal to engage in any negotiations to end the war along the lines of previous nuclear talks or with the same framework and objectives.
Araghchi announces the topics of Friday’s negotiations
In contrast, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced that direct negotiations with the United States to reach a final agreement would begin next Friday, June 19. He added that they would coincide with the official signing of a memorandum of understanding to “end the war.”
Araqchi did not disclose the exact location of the ceremony, saying only that it would “most likely take place on Friday at a location to be determined later.”
Araghchi divided the new negotiations into two main axes. The first axis focuses on the immediate signing of a memorandum of understanding that includes a declaration ending the war. In addition, it includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, lifting the naval blockade, releasing frozen Iranian funds, and addressing the reconstruction file.
The 60-day deadline and the Lebanese equation
The foreign minister added that after reaching this initial understanding, negotiations would continue for a 60-day transitional period. He explained that during this time, both sides would strive for a final agreement encompassing nuclear issues and the lifting of comprehensive economic sanctions.
Araghchi linked the course of the war to the situation between Lebanon and Israel, asserting that any military attack on Lebanon would constitute a direct violation of the memorandum. This comes as US President Donald Trump announced via his “Truth Social” platform that Tehran had already agreed to “never possess nuclear weapons.”
