An Iranian cleric has lashed out at former President Donald Trump’s confrontational style, accusing him of using “madman” tactics to intimidate adversaries as nuclear tensions simmer.
At a Glance
- Iranian cleric Ahmad Khatami accused Donald Trump of using psychological warfare by acting like a “madman” to intimidate other nations
- Khatami ruled out direct nuclear talks with the U.S., reaffirming Iran’s strategy of indirect negotiations under Supreme Leader Khamenei
- The cleric emphasized Iran follows Islamic principles, not American pressure
- Khatami reiterated Iran’s public opposition to building nuclear weapons, despite its advanced enrichment capabilities
- The remarks come amid stalled indirect talks between Tehran and Washington
Tehran Rejects Trump’s ‘Madman’ Strategy
Speaking during Friday prayers in Tehran, senior Iranian cleric Ahmad Khatami condemned what he described as psychological tactics by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Khatami claimed Trump’s attempt to frighten other nations by presenting himself as erratic was a calculated ploy. “But the Iranian people will drive him madder, because fear of the enemy has no place in our nation’s code,” he declared, according to Newsmax.
No Direct Talks With U.S., Says Khatami
Khatami, who often channels messages from Iran’s Supreme Leader, emphasized that Tehran has no plans for direct negotiations with Washington over its nuclear program. Instead, he confirmed that indirect talks continue under the supervision of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. “We take our orders from Islam, not America,” Khatami said, rejecting the idea of U.S. influence over Iran’s sovereign decisions.
Iran Reiterates Nuclear Stance
Despite widespread suspicion from Western governments, Khatami insisted Iran has no intention of producing nuclear weapons. He acknowledged the technical overlap between uranium enrichment and weapons capability but reiterated Iran’s position that it is not seeking atomic arms. This aligns with Tehran’s repeated claims that its nuclear ambitions are peaceful, a stance that has long been met with skepticism by the U.S. and its allies.
Diplomatic Impasse Persists
Khatami’s remarks come at a delicate moment in U.S.–Iran relations. While indirect negotiations continue, substantive progress has remained elusive. Iran’s insistence on its right to enrich uranium and the U.S.’s demand for stronger verification mechanisms remain key sticking points. Meanwhile, Trump’s legacy looms large over current policy, with his hardline approach still shaping perceptions in Tehran.
The comments underscore Iran’s resolve to resist external pressure while navigating a perilous geopolitical standoff—one where words like “madman” are no longer just rhetoric but reflective of the deep mistrust still dividing both sides.
