Trump Open to Meeting Iran's Supreme Leader if Deal Reached

U.S. President Donald Trump has again signaled his openness to meeting with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, stating it would be an "honor" if a deal between the two nations is reached. Trump's comments, made to reporters at the White House, suggest a potential shift in his approach towards Iranian leadership.

While Trump initially dismissed Khamenei as a "lightweight" early in the conflict, his tone has recently softened. In a previous interview with the New York Post's "Pod Save America," Trump expressed a desire to meet Khamenei, saying, "I’d like to meet him. We’ll see what happens. He’s certainly involved, and people seem to respect him a lot."

Responding to questions about a potential meeting, Trump indicated that while he is not actively seeking one, it could happen if an agreement is finalized. "I'm not looking to meet him, but if we make a deal, we'll see," he said. He also acknowledged Khamenei's expertise and reputation, stating, "I’m probably not his favorite person, but he’s an expert in his field and has a very good reputation."

Trump provided few specifics on the ongoing negotiations with Iran but reiterated key points of a potential deal. He emphasized that Iran must not possess nuclear weapons and that the Strait of Hormuz would be immediately reopened. He also expressed frustration with European allies, stating they chose not to help resolve issues concerning the Strait of Hormuz despite being given opportunities.