Tehran: Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei stated on Thursday that he personally held a 'different view' regarding the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States but ultimately authorized it after receiving assurances from President Masoud Pezeshkian and senior officials. He emphasized that any future direct negotiations would not equate to accepting the 'enemy's position.'

According to Anadolu Agency, in a message disseminated by Iranian media, Khamenei explained that President Pezeshkian and his US counterpart Donald Trump had signed the memorandum following extensive efforts by authorities to reach this stage 'out of compassion and goodwill.' Khamenei noted that Trump had utilized 'all available means' to move the process forward.

Khamenei highlighted, 'Fundamentally, I had a different view. But given the commitment of the respected president, in his capacity as head of the Supreme National Security Council, and the other members to safeguard the rights of the Iranian people and the Resistance Front, and their acceptance of responsibility, I gave my permission.'

He further mentioned that President Pezeshkian assured him that Iran would not tolerate excessive demands from the US side. Khamenei stated, 'From this moment onward, we-- the great Iranian nation and this humble servant -- will wait for the fulfillment of those conditions.'

Khamenei reiterated that any future direct negotiations with the US would not signify accepting the opposing position, underscoring Iran's stance on maintaining its sovereignty and interests.