US and Iran Exchange Indirect Messages Amid Lull

Following a mutual suspension of military strikes, the United States and Iran are exchanging indirect messages through mediators. U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about the diplomatic track, while Iranian officials maintain that no direct negotiations are occurring and demand the U.S. halt its pressure tactics. Analysts from Washington and Tehran discuss the fragile de-escalation, the prospects for renewed diplomacy, and the anticipated impact of an upcoming meeting between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on U.S. policy toward Iran.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei publicly denied claims that bilateral negotiations were taking place between Iran and the United States, clarifying that ongoing talks are regional and focused on the Strait of Hormuz.