Iran reports US messages via intermediaries, no direct talks taking place

At the same time, the Iranian leadership emphasizes being open to a diplomatic solution, provided it respects the country's sovereignty and national interests. Regardless of the indirect signals from Washington, Tehran continues to uphold its right to a peaceful nuclear program and continues to reject abandoning uranium enrichment. At the same time, the government warns against any interference in internal affairs.

Background: Nuclear dispute and regional tensions

Tensions between the two countries did not begin with the recent attacks. The background is the conflict that has been smoldering for years over the Iranian nuclear program, Tehran's role as a regional actor, and its relationship with allied groups such as Hezbollah and the Houthis. Observers view the pause as an attempt to avoid further escalation without, however, abandoning fundamental positions.

Violence in the region continues

At the same time, fighting in the region continues. According to reports from Riyadh, Iran-allied Houthis in Yemen attacked several Saudi tankers and oil facilities. Saudi Arabia responded over the weekend with bombardments of positions held by the Shiite warriors, who have controlled northern Yemen since 2015. The violence in the region is thus overshadowing the diplomatic signals between Washington and Tehran.

No information has so far emerged from Washington about which intermediaries are delivering the messages or under what conditions Washington would be willing to engage in direct talks. Nothing has also been disclosed about a possible location, timeframe, or agenda. The Iranian side merely stated that it is reviewing the messages delivered and will respond at its own pace.

What is known so far about possible intermediaries

International observers see the pause as a tactical move. Trump is using the breathing space to strengthen his own negotiating position and demonstrate domestically mediated engagement, without committing himself. For Tehran, the pause offers the opportunity to present itself as willing to talk without making concessions that could jeopardize its own political system.

Risks and expectations

It remains unclear whether the indirect contacts will lead to formal negotiations in the coming days. The US has brought its UN ambassador Waltz in as the central communicator, while the Iranian side is relying on the institutional channel through the Foreign Ministry and state communication. A high-level meeting in the near future is currently considered unlikely.

Outlook: Setting the course for the coming days

In the region, concern is meanwhile growing that a pause achieved through diplomatic means could mean a weakening of military deterrence. According to diplomats, Israel and the Gulf states are observing the developments with great attention. If Washington were to commit to negotiations on a lasting basis, this could put the existing security architectures in the Middle East under pressure.

Both sides emphasize that they want to avoid further escalation. Whether the indirect messages will turn into a concrete negotiation process depends, according to experts, primarily on whether the US will ease sanctions or offer security guarantees – and whether Iran is willing to verifiably limit its nuclear program.