23-05-2025
Iran Labels Trump a 'Madman' as Nuclear Talks Enter Critical Phase
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Ahmad Khatami, a senior hardline Iranian cleric, has said that President Donald Trump "portrays himself as a madman so that nations will fear him." Khatami ruled out talks with the United States, calling such discussions incompatible with Iran's principles, according to state media.
Despite this stance, he confirmed that negotiations continue "under the Supreme Leader's guidance." The announcement comes as Iran and the U.S. prepare for a fifth round of talks in Rome, with Oman once again serving as mediator.
Newsweek has reached out to the White House and Iran's foreign ministry for comment.
Why It Matters
Iran's approach to negotiations underscores the profound mistrust that colors U.S.–Iran relations, even amid ongoing diplomatic efforts. As Trump renews his hardline stance, Tehran maintains a strict position, particularly on its uranium enrichment program, which it says is for peaceful purposes despite U.S. concerns over its potential weapons development. While Iran continues to participate in talks, disagreements over enrichment levels and sanctions remain major obstacles. The upcoming negotiations could influence the future of nuclear diplomacy and regional stability.
In this Jan. 5, 2018 file photo, Iranian senior cleric Ahmad Khatami delivers his sermon during Friday prayer ceremony in Tehran, Iran. In recent months, Iran has been beset by economic problems despite the promises...
In this Jan. 5, 2018 file photo, Iranian senior cleric Ahmad Khatami delivers his sermon during Friday prayer ceremony in Tehran, Iran. In recent months, Iran has been beset by economic problems despite the promises surrounding the 2015 nuclear deal it struck with world powers. More
Ebrahim Noroozi/AP Photo
What To Know
Ahmad Khatami criticized Trump's tactics as psychological warfare, saying the Iranian people will not be intimidated because "fear of the enemy has no place in our nation's code." He emphasized that engaging directly with Washington conflicts with Iran's values of honor and reason.
Regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions, Khatami recognized the connection between uranium enrichment and weapons potential but said that Iran remains committed to religious principles that forbid the development of atomic bombs. "We take our orders from Islam, not America," he stated firmly.
'Time to Decide'
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said it's "time to decide" ahead of Friday's nuclear talks with the U.S., emphasizing that "Zero nuclear weapons = we DO have a deal. Zero enrichment = we do NOT have a deal." While the first four rounds of talks mediated by Oman have been broadly positive, Washington has sent mixed signals about accepting any enrichment.
Set to travel to Rome for 5th round of indirect talks with the United States.
Figuring out the path to a deal is not rocket science:
Zero nuclear weapons = we DO have a deal.
Zero enrichment = we do NOT have a deal.
Time to decide... — Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) May 22, 2025
The talks, scheduled for around 12 p.m. local time in Rome, will include Araghchi and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. President Trump has expressed support for the negotiations but warned that military action remains an option if talks fail—an outcome that could heighten tensions in the Middle East and disrupt global oil markets.
What People Are Saying
Iranian senior cleric Ahmad Khatami: "Direct negotiations with Washington are incompatible with honor, rationality, and intelligence. Trump portrays himself as a madman so that nations will fear him."
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff: "We have one very, very clear red line, and that is enrichment. We cannot allow even 1 percent of an enrichment capability."
What Happens Next
Despite skepticism from Iran's top leadership, the nuclear talks in Rome will proceed, continuing a cautious diplomatic effort amid persistent tensions and the looming potential for conflict.
