Iran–US Tensions: Trump Signals Diplomacy While Khamenei Threatens Wider Conflict

US President Donald Trump has said Iran is now “seriously talking” to Washington, suggesting a diplomatic opening despite ongoing threats of military confrontation between the two countries.

Speaking on Saturday night, Trump declined to confirm whether he had reached a final decision on the possible use of force against Tehran, but indicated that diplomatic engagement was underway. He dismissed concerns that the US was backing down, arguing that a negotiated agreement without nuclear weapons would be preferable — if Iran was willing to make one.

“They are talking to us. Seriously talking to us,” Trump said, while acknowledging uncertainty over whether a deal could ultimately be reached.

Tensions remain high in Iran, where lawmakers chanted “Death to America!” during a parliamentary session. On Sunday, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei played down US threats but issued a stark warning, saying any American attack would be met with a powerful response.

“We are not the ones who start wars,” Khamenei said, adding that if Iran were attacked, the conflict would rapidly expand beyond its borders and engulf the wider region.