WASHINGTON — The White House said Tuesday it is adopting a cautious approach following Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s indication that negotiations with the US over Tehran's nuclear program might be resumed.

A National Security Council spokesperson stated, "We have long said that we ultimately view diplomacy as the best way to achieve an effective, long-term solution to Iran’s nuclear program. However, we are far away from anything like that right now."

The spokesperson emphasized that the US will assess Iran based on actions rather than words, urging Tehran to halt its nuclear and regional escalations to demonstrate seriousness.

Khamenei’s comments came during his first meeting with the new Cabinet led by President Masoud Pezeshkian. He noted that while resuming talks with the US could be acceptable, it is important not to place trust in Washington, referring to the US as Tehran's "enemy."

These remarks follow increased regional tensions, particularly in light of the assassination of Hamas' former political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in late July. In response, the US has deployed two carrier strike groups to the region to support Israel and deter any potential Iranian retaliation. — Agencies