Thursday, February 5, 2026-Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has signaled a strategic shift as tensions with the United States escalate following the brutal suppression of nationwide protests. After deploying the Revolutionary Guard to crush demonstrations that activists say left thousands dead, Khamenei has now moved to reduce the risk of a U.S. military strike by opening the door to nuclear negotiations with Washington.
With an American naval presence close by and rhetoric intensifying on both sides, the cleric has warned that any U.S. strike would trigger a broader regional war, underscoring Tehran’s effort to deter military action through a mix of threats and diplomacy.
The protests erupted amid a deepening economic crisis and widespread anger over clerical rule, prompting one of the deadliest crackdowns in decades. Iran’s leadership has demonstrated its grip on power by cutting internet access, arresting tens of thousands, and deploying elite forces to quell unrest.
Now facing external pressure, Khamenei appears to be trying to balance internal control with international risk management by reversing an earlier refusal to negotiate with the United States. Allowing talks — particularly around nuclear issues — could be aimed at buying time and reducing the immediacy of threats from Washington.
The decision comes amid broader diplomatic maneuvering. Iran’s foreign minister recently traveled to Oman to prepare for nuclear discussions, even as Tehran remains opposed to U.S. demands on its nuclear enrichment program and ballistic missiles. Regional players like Turkey and Arab Gulf states are also actively pushing de-escalation and mediation to avoid outright conflict. Together, these developments point to Iran’s leadership attempting to avert military confrontation while preserving its authority at home and responding to escalating international pressure.
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