Beijing sought to position itself as a key player in negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, as President Trump called for talks with Tehran.

Though it harbours deep mistrust of the United States, and President Donald Trump in particular, Tehran is increasingly concerned that mounting public anger over economic hardships could erupt into mass protests,

As Trump attempts to force Iran's hand into renegotiating a nuclear deal, Iran Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has rebuffed the U.S.' pressuring tactics. But for the country's clerical leaders,