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By Amir Daftari
News Reporter
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As preparations intensify for nuclear talks between Iran and the United States in Oman, divisions within Iran's political and religious leadership have resurfaced.
While Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reluctantly approved the negotiations, hardline clerics loyal to him are speaking out forcefully against the decision.
Newsweek has reached out to Iran's foreign ministry for comment.
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Why It Matters
The upcoming talks are unfolding amid intensifying U.S.-Iran tensions, driven by Tehran's expanding nuclear program and Washington's warnings of potential military action. While the negotiations could open a path toward de-escalation, they have also revealed sharp divisions within Iran's leadership. If hardline opposition stalls diplomacy, the risk of confrontation may only grow.
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What To Know
Despite Khamenei's apparent sanctioning of indirect negotiations, senior clerics have condemned any engagement with Washington. In Friday sermons across Iran, hardline clerics—appointed directly by the Supreme Leader—issued stern warnings against compromising with what they regard as an inherently untrustworthy adversary. Their rhetoric underscores deep resistance within the theocratic establishment.
"Negotiating with America is against our national pride," said Ahmad Alamolhoda, the influential Friday prayer leader of Mashhad, according to the Mehr news agency. "No Iranian with self-respect would accept to approach the U.S. empty-handed." he added.
"There is no room for negotiation at all if they want to take nuclear power away from us," said hardline cleric, Kazem Sedighi, echoing similar views during his weekly sermon.
Supreme Leader's Backing
While Khamenei has long voiced skepticism about diplomacy with the U.S., media close to his office have emphasized that talks in Oman would not be taking place without his explicit approval. President Masoud Pezeshkian has confirmed that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will lead Iran's delegation in the upcoming discussions, which are expected to center on limiting Tehran's nuclear program.
Economic Strains Fuel Debate
Opponents of renewed engagement argue that no deal should be struck at the cost of Iran's sovereignty or defense posture. They point to the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA under President Donald Trump in 2018 as evidence of American unreliability.
Still, Iran's ongoing economic collapse may ultimately drive a more pragmatic approach. The national currency has lost over 90 percent of its value since 2018, and nearly half the population now lives below the poverty line. Average monthly salaries have fallen below $100, pushing millions into economic hardship.
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What People Are Saying
Sina Azodi, Professorial Lecturer of International Affairs, The George Washington University told Newsweek: "I think the Pezeshkian administration is under tremendous internal and external pressure. Internally, the devaluation of rial and soaring inflation rate are threatening his entire presidency and without sanctions relief nothing will change. Externally, too, he is facing pressure from multiple fronts."
Ahmad Alamolhoda, Imam of Mashhad stated: "Negotiating with America is against our national pride."
President Donald Trump said: "Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon, and if the talks aren't successful, I actually think it'll be a very bad day for Iran."
What Happens Next
With talks set for Saturday in Oman, Iran's leadership must navigate internal dissent while engaging a U.S. administration expected to demand significant nuclear concessions. The outcome may reshape the region's trajectory for months to come.
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