Araghchi: Trump’s Letter ‘Mostly Threats’ but Also Hints at Opportunities

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that President Donald Trump’s letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader “mostly amounts to threats” but also “claims to offer certain opportunities.” Araghchi made these remarks on a special Norooz program on Channel 2, which he attended with his wife and young daughter. He noted that Iran has examined all aspects of the letter in detail and is preparing a response that “will reflect both the threats and the potential openings contained within.” According to Araghchi, “We have carefully reviewed all aspects of the letter. The response we are preparing will reflect these dimensions, including both the threats and the purported opportunities.”

Araghchi also recalled the late General Qassem Soleimani: “Within every threat, there also lies an opportunity, and we intend to take any potential opportunity into account.” He confirmed that a formal reply would be sent to the United States “through appropriate channels” in the coming days.

President Trump’s letter, mentioned by Araghchi, was sent to the Supreme Leader in an attempt to open a direct channel of communication. However, this diplomatic gesture has simultaneously been accompanied by the threat of additional sanctions and possible military action if Washington’s demands were not met. This dual-track approach—offering potential diplomatic paths alongside heightened pressure—has been a hallmark of the Trump administration’s Iran strategy. Araghchi’s comments suggest that Iran views the letter as both “menacing and opportunistic,” and that while Tehran remains unwilling to negotiate under overt coercion, it has not entirely closed the door on potential diplomatic engagement—provided that interactions take place on equal terms and without escalating threats.

Araghchi reiterated that Iran will not engage in direct negotiations with the United States while under escalating sanctions and threats. “Negotiations must take place on equal footing,” he said, adding that it is Iran’s policy to avoid direct talks under pressure. He also addressed concerns about the complexities of the coming year—particularly in light of future deadlines and international scrutiny—explaining that the period ahead will be “hard, important, and complex.” Nonetheless, he expressed confidence that Iran is prepared to face these challenges and will “overcome them by God’s grace.” Araghchi underscored that “great nations are forged in times of hardship,” noting that adversity often drives greater innovation and more determined efforts to resolve problems.

He further stressed that safeguarding national interests is the guiding principle of Iran’s foreign policy, recalling how Tehran has previously experienced “maximum pressure” from Washington. Araghchi assured the Iranian people that officials in the foreign ministry will spare no effort to advance the country’s interests and security, pledging not to miss any opportunity to achieve those goals.