Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has placed the country's armed forces on high alert amid concerns of an attack from the United States, according to a high-ranking Iranian official speaking to Reuters on April 6.
Iran has sent messages to countries including Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, Turkey, and Bahrain, stating that any assistance to a U.S. attack, including providing airspace or territory for American military forces, will be considered an act of aggression against Tehran and will face "serious consequences."
Khamenei previously dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump's call for direct talks, preferring indirect negotiations through Oman, which has historically served as a communication channel between the two nations, according to the Iranian official. Such talks could begin soon if the U.S. supports them, he added.
Abbas Araqchi, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, stated that Iran is ready to enter negotiations on its nuclear program and sanctions relief, emphasizing that Iran remains steadfast in protecting its national interests and sovereignty. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had previously stated Tehran desires "negotiations on equal terms, without threats."
Earlier in March, President Trump reportedly sent a letter to Iranian authorities urging them to engage in nuclear deal negotiations, setting a two-month deadline, according to Axios. Trump allegedly threatened Tehran with "historic punishments and bombardments they have never seen before" if they refused dialogue on the nuclear program.