Donald Trump, President of the United States, Congratulates Nowruz 1404

The President of the United States congratulated all those celebrating the ancient holiday of Nowruz in America and around the world on the eve of Nowruz 1404. In Donald Trump's message published on Thursday, March 30, he stated that 'Nowruz is a joyful occasion for Persians, marking the moment of the spring equinox and the new year.' He added, 'This ancient tradition provides a time to reflect on the blessings of the past year and prepare for the upcoming spring with a renewed spirit of optimism.' The U.S. President emphasized that 'Persians contribute significantly to society with their vibrant culture and exceptional talents in fields such as mathematics, science, law, technology, and the arts.' Axios reported that Trump has given Iran a two-month deadline for a new nuclear agreement in a letter. 'On behalf of the United States, I extend my warmest wishes for a joyful holiday. Happy Nowruz!' Trump's Nowruz message for 1404 made no reference to the ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States. This is notable as previous U.S. presidents have often referenced Iranian leaders in their messages and supported peaceful protests and the need to secure the basic rights of Iranian citizens. For instance, former President Joe Biden emphasized in his Nowruz message for 1403 that the United States stands with the brave women of Iran fighting for their freedom. Biden also stated in his Nowruz message for 1402 that the U.S. would continue to stand with women and all citizens of Iran 'who have inspired the world with their conviction and courage.' These two messages were issued during protests following the death of Mahsa (Zhina) Amini in the custody of the morality police, which led to public opposition from women in Iran against mandatory hijab laws—a struggle that continues despite heavy legal and police costs. Trump himself had emphasized in his Nowruz messages during his first four years in office that he stands with the people of Iran and their aspirations and supported public protests in Iran. The Nowruz message for 1404 comes at a time when verbal tensions between the U.S. and Iran have increased, and Trump, who has repeatedly stressed negotiations with Iranian officials, sent a letter with a 'harsh tone' to Ali Khamenei regarding this matter. According to Axios, citing an American official and two sources familiar with the content of the President's letter to Iran, Trump has given Tehran a two-month deadline to reach a new nuclear agreement with Washington. The report states, 'If Iran rejects this proposal and does not engage in negotiations, the likelihood of U.S. or Israeli military action against Iran's nuclear facilities will significantly increase.' Since returning to power, Trump has adopted a 'maximum pressure' policy towards Iran and has also warned Iranian officials about the continued military activities of Iran-backed Houthis, explicitly stating that the U.S. has reached 'the final moments' regarding Iran.