Tehran: Iran has dismissed the possibility of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, while also warning Washington that the ongoing conflict could spread further if Tehran’s frozen assets are not released.
According to Hindustan Times, Trump had recently said that he would be open to meeting Khamenei despite acknowledging that he was “probably not” the Iranian leader’s favourite person. However, Tehran firmly rejected the idea amid stalled negotiations between the two nations.
Iran Links Peace Efforts To Frozen Assets
Mohsen Rezaei, military adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, said any peace agreement with the United States depends on Washington releasing billions of dollars in frozen Iranian funds. He described the move as a “test of trust” for the Trump administration.
Rezaei warned that if the issue remains unresolved, the ongoing conflict could enter “another dimension” and potentially expand into the Indian Ocean region. Reports cited by Hindustan Times and other international media said Iran is seeking access to nearly $24 billion in frozen assets.
Strait Of Hormuz Remains A Major Flashpoint
The Strait of Hormuz continues to remain at the centre of rising tensions in the region. Earlier reports highlighted Iran’s increasing control measures in the strategic waterway, raising concerns over global shipping and oil transit routes.
Hindustan Times previously reported that Tehran introduced a new “Hormuz Safe” system to regulate shipping movement through the strait, a move that added to fears of broader instability in the Gulf region.
US-Iran Negotiations Continue Amid Regional Tensions
Despite the sharp rhetoric from Tehran, diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran are still continuing. International reports suggest that discussions over sanctions relief, regional security and ceasefire arrangements remain complicated by military escalations across the Middle East.
Reuters reported that the US is also considering using Iranian assets to help Gulf allies rebuild after recent attacks linked to Tehran, a proposal that could further complicate ongoing negotiations.
Trump Signals Interest In Diplomacy
Trump has continued to express optimism about eventually reaching a deal with Iran. Recent international media reports said the US President believes a diplomatic breakthrough is still possible despite the tense military situation in the region.
However, Tehran’s latest response indicates that Iran is unwilling to consider any direct engagement with Khamenei unless its financial and political demands are addressed first.
Also Read: Strait Of Hormuz : US Downs Iranian Drones, Strikes Radar Sites
