Washington, D.C. — Former U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed that he plans to engage with Iran’s new leadership, following their reported interest in opening a dialogue with his administration.

“They want to talk and I have agreed to talk, so I will be talking to them,” Trump was quoted as saying by The Atlantic magazine.

Trump criticized the timing of Iran’s initiative, suggesting that the country should have approached the United States sooner. “They should have done it sooner. They should have given what was very practical and easy to do sooner. They waited too long,” he added.

His remarks reflect his longstanding view that earlier engagement could have helped address practical issues more efficiently, while avoiding unnecessary delays.

Dialogue Plans Remain Unclear

Despite confirming his willingness to talk, Trump did not provide details on when these conversations might take place. The absence of a timeline leaves observers uncertain about the next steps, though the acknowledgment itself signals a potential thaw in communication between the former U.S. president and Iran’s new leadership.

Trump’s statement has already drawn attention from international analysts, who note that even preliminary discussions could have implications for regional diplomacy and U.S. foreign policy. The prospect of direct engagement between Trump and Iran’s officials highlights the continued focus on West Asia, where tensions remain sensitive.

While the exact format or timing of the talks is yet to be revealed, Trump’s confirmation indicates a willingness to explore dialogue with Iran’s new leaders. Observers will be watching closely as developments unfold and as the former president’s statements shape expectations of potential engagement.

Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir — National Conference President and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah on Sunday expressed profound grief over the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, describing the development as “deeply troubling” and potentially destabilizing for regional peace.

In a strongly worded statement issued by the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference, Abdullah termed the alleged joint U.S.–Israeli strike that reportedly led to Khamenei’s death as “regrettable and provocative,” warning that such actions risk escalating tensions across an already fragile geopolitical landscape.

‘Grave Blow to Regional Stability’

Abdullah characterized the incident as an “anguishing tragedy” with far-reaching implications beyond West Asia. He cautioned that actions of this magnitude not only erode global trust but also intensify pre-existing regional tensions.

“Developments of this nature deepen uncertainty and sorrow across communities and nations,” the statement quoted him as saying. He urged the international community to respond with wisdom, restraint, and a firm commitment to international law and justice.

Appeal for Calm and Respect for Public Sentiment

The veteran Kashmiri leader also appealed to the administration in Indian-administered Kashmir to manage the prevailing public sentiment with sensitivity. He emphasized that citizens expressing grief should be allowed to do so peacefully and without fear, provided that public order is maintained.

“All stakeholders must avoid provocation and work seriously toward restoring stability,” Abdullah said, stressing the importance of de-escalation at both the regional and global levels.

Iranian State Media Confirms Death

According to Iranian state media reports on Sunday morning, Ayatollah Khamenei was killed in what was described as a U.S.–Israeli strike. The reports also claimed that members of his family, including his son-in-law and daughter-in-law, were among those killed.

International observers note that the reported development could have significant diplomatic consequences, with governments across the region closely monitoring the evolving situation.

Further updates are expected as more verified information emerges.