Khamenei outlines Iran's conditions for any deal with the United States

WASHINGTON, United States — TEHRAN — Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has set out Tehran's conditions for any potential agreement with Washington, listing mutual respect, the lifting of sanctions and the protection of national interests among his requirements. Iranian officials have stressed that negotiations with the United States must proceed on the basis of equality between the two sides. Khamenei emphasized that Iran will continue to make its foreign policy decisions independently, and drew attention to what he described as Tehran's red lines in relations with the United States. Officials said the establishment of a climate of trust is a prerequisite for any deal. The statement indicated that Iran's regional policy stance has not changed and that Tehran will not compromise its sovereign rights, particularly over its nuclear program. No further details on the timing or format of possible talks were provided.