President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that Iran has released Dena Karari, an American citizen wrongfully detained since December 2024. Trump stated she is now safely outside Iran and in good condition, characterizing the release as a gesture of goodwill by Iran. The announcement was made via a post on Truth Social.

Detention and Release Details

Karari is a dual U.S.-Iranian citizen who was prevented from leaving Iran after visiting family in 2024. According to her lawyer, Jared Genser, she was detained on bogus charges and has now safely left the country. Genser attributed her release to the extraordinary and relentless efforts of the president.

Background and Context

Reports indicate Karari worked for an American technology company and operated a charity supporting underprivileged children in Iran. Following U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran in 2025, she was reportedly charged with espionage by Iranian authorities. Trump noted she had been detained under the administration of former President Joe Biden.

Iran's top negotiator, Qalibaf, stated that the nation has never welcomed war but must always be prepared to fight and stand until the end to safeguard its national security and interests. He emphasized the necessity of employing diplomacy and negotiation as tools to realize and secure these interests. The remarks highlight a dual approach of maintaining defensive readiness while pursuing diplomatic avenues. Qalibaf added that the country's armed forces have complete freedom of action to confront the enemy's aggression, and that national security lies in maintaining the Iranian arrangements on the Strait of Hormuz.

Existential War with America

Qalibaf described the current situation as an essential and existential war with America, asserting that the aim of this conflict extends beyond toppling Iran's system to fragmenting the country. This characterization underscores the high stakes perceived by Iranian leadership regarding ongoing geopolitical tensions. He further clarified that negotiation at this stage is not equivalent to compromise but, along with war, forms part of the strategy of resistance and protection of national interests. Qalibaf also noted that the enemy's strategy has not changed, reinforcing the sustained nature of the threat as perceived by Iran.

Strategic Autonomy and Long-Term Approach

Qalibaf emphasized that Iran's approach in war or negotiation must be based on national interests and security, realistic, and long-term. He stated that the nation has no choice but to rely on its own strength and become strong. Regarding international agreements, he declared that if Iran is not going to benefit from a Memorandum of Understanding, there is no reason to adhere to such an understanding.

The following table summarizes the key positions and parameters outlined by Qalibaf: