Even with U.S. forces poised for potential strikes, Iran expressed cautious optimism about reviving negotiations over its nuclear program. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told CNN Sunday that he is “confident that we can achieve a deal” with Washington, though he noted Tehran’s “lost…trust” in the U.S. as a negotiating partner.

Araghchi emphasized focusing on nuclear issues, rather than broader regional tensions, and said Iran expects sanctions relief and recognition of its right to peaceful nuclear enrichment. “Let’s not talk about impossible things,” he said, warning that failure could escalate into conflict.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei echoed the warning, declaring any U.S. strike would trigger a regional war. President Donald Trump acknowledged Khamenei’s statement while noting U.S. military assets in the region and expressing hope for an agreement.

Regional diplomacy is underway, including visits and calls from Qatar and Egypt aimed at de-escalating tensions.

Read the full interview at CNN.