WANA (Feb 07) – The Supreme Leader of Iran, in a meeting with a group of Air Force and Air Defense commanders, emphasized: “The experience of the JCPOA has shown that negotiations with the U.S. will solve nothing.”

 

Ayatollah Khamenei, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, addressing senior officials and personnel of Iran’s Air Force and Air Defense, highlighted the fruitless experience of nearly two years of negotiations with the U.S. in the 1990s. He pointed out how the U.S. reneged on all its commitments, stating: “Negotiating with the U.S. does not solve any issues, including economic hardships—just as it has not in the past. The real solution to our problems lies in the dedication of responsible officials and the unity of our people.”

 

The Illusion of Negotiation with the U.S.

Referring to discussions in newspapers, social media, and statements by certain individuals advocating for negotiations with the U.S., the Leader stated: “They speak of negotiations as if it is an inherently good thing, implying that those who oppose talks with the U.S. are against negotiation itself. This is misleading.”

 

He stressed that Iran’s diplomatic efforts have been extensive, engaging in negotiations and agreements with various countries worldwide—except for the United States. He also clarified that Israel is not even considered an exception because it is not a legitimate state but rather a “criminal gang that has occupied a land.”

 

Explaining why the U.S. is an exception, he said:

“Some claim that sitting at the negotiation table will resolve our issues, but the reality is that negotiations with the U.S. have no impact on improving the country’s situation.”

 

The JCPOA: A Failed Experiment

The Supreme Leader cited Iran’s past experience with negotiations, particularly the nearly two-year-long talks in the 1990s that resulted in the JCPOA, as clear evidence of their futility: “Our government at the time engaged in extensive talks with the Americans and other nations. They negotiated, traveled, smiled, shook hands, and even formed friendships. A treaty was signed in which Iran generously offered numerous concessions. However, the Americans failed to uphold their end of the agreement.”

 

He reminded his audience that even before Trump officially “tore up” the JCPOA, the previous U.S. administration had also failed to honor it. Sanctions that were supposed to be lifted remained in place, and UN-related issues lingered like a constant threat over Iran.

 

Why Negotiation with the U.S. Is Unwise

Ayatollah Khamenei stressed the importance of learning from past experiences: “Two years of negotiation, concessions, and compromises led to no results. The U.S. eventually violated the deal and withdrew. Negotiating with such a country is neither rational, intelligent, nor honorable. Therefore, we should not engage in talks with them.”

 

He also dismissed American efforts to redraw the global map, calling them “nothing but illusions on paper,” while acknowledging that the U.S. continues to issue threats against Iran.

 

A Clear Response to U.S. Threats

The Leader of the Islamic Revolution made Iran’s stance clear: “If they threaten us, we will threaten them. If they act on their threats, we will respond in kind. And if they endanger our nation’s security, we will, without hesitation, reciprocate.”

 

He emphasized that defending Iran is a top priority and strengthening the military is a national necessity: “The military must continuously enhance its capabilities—whether in human resources, weaponry, training, combat readiness, or defense strategies. Any weaknesses must be addressed, and innovation must be a constant. The armed forces must prove that they are capable of achieving even greater accomplishments.”

 

This speech reaffirmed Iran’s unwavering stance against U.S. pressure and reinforced its commitment to self-reliance in addressing national challenges.