The Middle East is a mess. And now something big is about to happen.
Because Iran’s Supreme Leader came crawling to America for one reason.
Vance Addresses Diplomatic Hurdles in Podcast Interview
In an appearance on The Megyn Kelly Show, Vice President JD Vance described the dynamics of engaging with Iran as particularly challenging due to the supreme leader’s position.
He stated: “It’s a very weird country to conduct diplomacy with, when you can’t even talk to the person who’s in charge of the country. That makes all of this much more complicated… It is bizarre that we can’t just talk to the actual leadership of the country. It really makes diplomacy very, very difficult.”
Vance emphasized that this setup contrasts with interactions involving other nations, where leaders can communicate directly.
He pointed out that President Trump could reach out by phone to counterparts in countries like Russia, China, or North Korea, but the same is not possible with Iran’s ultimate decision-maker.
Indirect Talks Underway Amid Tensions
The comments come as indirect U.S.-Iran negotiations began on February 6, 2026, in Oman, with Oman acting as the mediator. The U.S. delegation included Special Representative for the Middle East Steve Witkoff and negotiator Jared Kushner, alongside Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Hamad Al Busaidi.
These discussions focus on Iran’s nuclear program, missile capabilities, and regional issues, amid heightened tensions following past conflicts and U.S. military deployments in the area.
Khamenei, who has held supreme authority since 1989 and oversees Iran’s armed forces, judiciary, and key institutions, does not participate directly in such talks.
Experts note that Iran’s diplomatic protocols and Khamenei’s status as the highest religious and political figure mean no foreign leader holds an equivalent rank, making his involvement unlikely.
Analysts describe this as part of a broader system where perceived moderates or intermediaries handle negotiations, while ultimate decisions rest with the supreme leader.
Broader Context and U.S. Position
The talks occur against the backdrop of President Trump’s firm stance that Iran must not develop nuclear weapons, with warnings that regional rivals could pursue their own programs if Tehran succeeds.
Vance has reiterated the administration’s goal of preventing nuclear proliferation through non-military means where possible, while keeping other options available if needed.
Experts on Iran highlight that any meaningful agreement would ultimately require Khamenei’s approval, adding layers to the process.
This dynamic illustrates the distinct challenges in pursuing diplomacy with Iran, where power structures differ markedly from those in many other nations, requiring careful navigation to advance U.S. interests in regional stability and non-proliferation.
