Iran says US has softened tone in Vance letter but warns against new war
Iran's top security official, Mohsen Rezaei, said on Saturday that Tehran had received a letter from US Vice President JD Vance but had yet to respond, claiming Washington had significantly softened its approach towards Iran.
Speaking in a televised interview, Rezaei said the letter was delivered through an intermediary to Iran's Foreign Ministry before being forwarded to him by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
“The tone has completely changed,” Rezaei said, comparing the message with an earlier letter from President Donald Trump.
US media previously reported that Vance had contacted Rezaei at Trump's direction to revive peace negotiations. However, Trump maintained that the communication concerned medical supplies rather than diplomatic talks.
Rezaei also suggested Iran could reconsider its nuclear doctrine if another war erupted, although he stressed that no official decision had been made.
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He warned that Iran's armed forces remained highly prepared for any renewed conflict, pointing to the country's military capabilities in the Strait of Hormuz.
The security chief further claimed that recent US responses to proposals submitted through mediators indicated greater willingness to accept Iran's seven conditions for a potential agreement.
Despite the apparent diplomatic progress, Rezaei said Tehran remained deeply suspicious of Washington's intentions, fearing negotiations could be followed by renewed military action.
He also highlighted an October 26 meeting involving Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, saying the discussions could pave the way for new regional security arrangements.
Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding on June 18, following mediation by Pakistan and Qatar, covering the cessation of military operations and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
However, disagreements over the strategic waterway and the terms of a lasting settlement continue to hinder diplomatic progress.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
