Iran Open to Nuclear Talks With US Only: Khamenei Advisor

Iran Signals Willingness to Resume Nuclear Talks, But Conditions Remain

February 6, 2026 – Tehran has indicated a willingness to re-engage in negotiations regarding its nuclear program, but only under specific conditions, according to a statement made by a close advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Ali Shamkhani, the supreme leader’s international affairs advisor, reportedly told Lebanese media outlet Al Mayadeen on February 3, 2026, that Iran is open to talks with Washington. However, Shamkhani emphasized that these discussions would only proceed based on existing terms.

This development comes amidst ongoing international concern over Iran’s nuclear capabilities. While details of the “original terms” were not explicitly outlined in the initial report, other sources suggest a key sticking point revolves around Iran’s uranium enrichment activities.

According to a report from Le Monde.fr, Iran has stated that there will be no new nuclear talks if the United States insists on a prerequisite of halting uranium enrichment. This position underscores the sensitivity surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and its determination to maintain certain capabilities.

The willingness to consider talks, even with conditions attached, represents a potential shift in approach. Previously, reports indicated a firm stance against negotiations. In fact, Tehran reportedly denied any ongoing discussions with Washington, despite comments to the contrary from former U.S. President Donald Trump, as reported by Iran International.

However, the current signals suggest a possible opening for dialogue. A report from NBC News detailed that a top Iranian official indicated Tehran would forgo highly enriched uranium in a nuclear deal with Trump, though the current context and applicability of that offer remain unclear.

Further complicating the situation, Iran appears unwilling to alter its fundamental conditions for resuming negotiations. According to a report from Israel Hayom, Tehran is prepared to return to talks under the “original terms,” suggesting a preference for reinstating a previous agreement rather than negotiating a new one.

The CNN report highlights that while Iran is open to talks, it will not shift its conditions. This suggests a firm red line regarding its existing demands, potentially creating challenges for any future negotiations.

The implications of this development are significant. A resumption of talks could potentially de-escalate tensions in the region and address international concerns about Iran’s nuclear program. However, the insistence on maintaining existing conditions raises questions about the likelihood of a breakthrough.

The international community will be closely watching to see whether these signals translate into concrete action and whether the United States will be willing to engage with Iran under the terms proposed by Tehran. The path forward remains uncertain, but the possibility of renewed dialogue offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution.