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By Amir Daftari
News Reporter
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President Donald Trump has given Iran a two-month deadline to reach a new nuclear agreement, according to a report by Axios.
A letter sent earlier this month to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned of consequences if Tehran continued its nuclear program while also offering renewed talks. The message, described as uncompromising, made clear that prolonged negotiations were not an option.
Newsweek has reached out to the State Department and Iran's foreign ministry for comment.
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Why It Matters
The U.S. and Iran have remained at odds over nuclear policy since Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018. His administration's "maximum pressure" campaign has sought to economically isolate Iran and curb its nuclear ambitions. The official line from Tehran so far is one of unwillingness to engage with the Trump administration as long as the "maximum pressure" policy is in place.
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What to Know
Trump's letter was delivered to Iran by the United Arab Emirates' minister of state for foreign affairs, Anwar Gargash. It proposed negotiations on a new nuclear deal but included a firm time limit. The letter explicitly ruled out open-ended talks, making clear that Iran had a limited window to engage. However, it remains unclear whether the two-month deadline began upon delivery or with the start of negotiations.
Allies Briefed Beforehand
Before Trump's letter was sent, the White House informed key U.S. allies, including Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, about its contents, according to a U.S. official and another unnamed source. The administration sought to ensure regional partners were aware of the potential diplomatic shift and its conditions. The move signaled that Washington wanted support for its approach, even as the possibility of military action loomed.
Trump Acknowledged Sending Letter
In March, Trump confirmed the letter's existence, stating that Iran faced two choices: negotiation or military action. He reiterated his stance that Tehran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, emphasizing that the United States would take decisive action if necessary. Iran has always said its nuclear program has only peaceful purposes.
An Iranian foreign ministry spokesman said that Iran would provide an official response to Trump's letter "after full scrutiny."
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What People Are Saying
U.S. President Donald Trump: "There are two ways Iran can be handled: militarily, or you make a deal... I would prefer to make a deal, because I'm not looking to hurt Iran. They're great people."
Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson: "So far, we have no reason to publicise (Trump's) letter... Our response to this letter will be done through appropriate channels after full scrutiny."
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: "If they threaten us, we will threaten them in return. If they act on their threats, we will act on ours. If they violate the security of our nation, we will, without a doubt, respond in kind."
What Happens Next
Despite offering a path to diplomacy, Trump has continued his "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran. Whether Tehran will engage under the conditions set remains uncertain.
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