Arabic version: خامنئي يواصل الخطاب المتشدد تجاه الولايات المتحدة على الرغم من المحادثات النووية

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has continued to express a hardline stance against the United States, even as negotiations over the country’s nuclear program are ongoing. In a speech delivered on February 16, 2026, Khamenei reiterated his long-standing opposition to American influence in the region, emphasizing that Iran would not yield to external pressures. He accused the U.S. of attempting to undermine Iran’s sovereignty and warned that the country would not compromise on its core principles.

Khamenei’s comments come as world powers, including the U.S., engage in talks aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear agreement, which aimed to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions in exchange for sanctions relief. Despite the diplomatic efforts, Khamenei’s rhetoric signals a deep-seated mistrust of the U.S. and its intentions.

The Supreme Leader’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment within Iran’s leadership, which views the U.S. as a primary adversary. Khamenei stated that the Iranian people must remain vigilant against what he described as American plots to destabilize the nation. He underscored the importance of maintaining a strong military and advancing Iran’s defense capabilities.

The ongoing negotiations have faced numerous challenges, and while some officials express cautious optimism, Khamenei’s speech highlights the complexities of reaching a consensus. The Iranian leadership is wary of the concessions that might be proposed during talks and remains committed to a strategy of resistance against perceived threats from the West.

As the talks progress, the international community watches closely, hoping for a breakthrough that could ease tensions and lead to a more stable Middle East. However, Khamenei’s uncompromising stance suggests that significant obstacles remain in the path towards a diplomatic resolution.