Iran dimisses prospects of nuclear negotiations, denies receiving letter from Trump

US President Donald Trump sent a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, seeking a new nuclear deal with Tehran to restrain its rapidly advancing nuclear programme.

Trump wants to strike a new agreement with Tehran to replace the deal he had withdrew the United States from during his first term in office.

In an interview to US media outlets, Trump stressed that he prefers taking a peaceful approach, and reaching a diplomatic agreement without having to resort to force. He also hinted that he expects results “very soon”.

“Hopefully we can have a peace deal, I’m not speaking out of strength or weakness. I’m just saying I’d rather see a peace deal, than the other. But, the other, will solve the problem,” said Trump.

Both the US and Israel have warned that they will never let Iran acquire a nuclear weapon, leading to fears of a military confrontation as Tehran enriches uranium at near weapons-grade levels, something only done by nuclear-armed nations.

Trump says he’s written Tehran a letter telling the Supreme Leader that he hopes they’re going to negotiate. Trump also added that he explicitly delivered a written threat that if they do not engage in talks, the threat of a military intervention is very much on the table.

“I hope you’re going to negotiate, because if we have to go in militarily, it’s going to be a terrible thing,” noted Trump.

The United Nations welcomed Trump’s outreach to Iran. “As a matter of principle, we reaffirm that diplomacy remains the best way to ensure the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme”, said Stephane Dujarric, UN Spokesperson, in a statement.

“We welcome all diplomatic efforts towards that goal,” added the statement.

Iran denies receiving a letter from the US president but have