DUBAI/WASHINGTON/JERUSALEM/TEL AVIV — Iran has firmly denied engaging in any direct or indirect negotiations with the United States, contradicting statements by Donald Trump that suggested progress toward a potential agreement to ease hostilities in the Middle East.
Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, said no talks had taken place between Tehran and Washington. “Based on my information, contrary to Trump’s claim, no direct or indirect negotiations have taken place between the two countries so far,” he said, according to Iranian state media. He added that “friendly countries” were attempting to facilitate dialogue, expressing hope such efforts could help end what he described as an “imposed war.”
Trump had earlier claimed that “very good and productive” discussions were underway, prompting him to delay a planned strike on Iran’s energy infrastructure by five days. He said U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner had engaged with a senior Iranian official, though he did not name the counterpart. Trump later suggested the discussions could lead to “a complete and total resolution of hostilities.”
However, Iranian officials, including parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, dismissed the claims as “fake news,” accusing Washington of attempting to manipulate financial and oil markets. “No negotiations have been held with the U.S.,” Qalibaf said in a statement, adding that Iran remained committed to responding to what it considers aggression.
A European official indicated that while no direct talks had occurred, countries such as Egypt, Pakistan, and several Gulf states were acting as intermediaries, relaying messages between the two sides. Sources suggested that potential direct discussions could take place in Islamabad in the coming days, although no official confirmation has been issued.
The situation remains volatile on the ground. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reported launching new attacks on U.S. targets and Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Dimona. Israel’s military confirmed missile launches from Iran, with interceptions reported over Jerusalem.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would continue its military operations but acknowledged that Trump saw potential for a deal that could meet strategic objectives. Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi held consultations with Oman regarding developments in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has effectively closed the Strait, a key passage for roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, insisting it will remain shut until U.S. and Israeli attacks cease. The move has heightened concerns over global energy security and market stability.
Diplomatic efforts appear to be intensifying behind the scenes. Pakistan’s leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and military chief Asim Munir, has reportedly engaged with Iranian and U.S. officials as part of mediation efforts. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated Tehran’s commitment to regional stability while opposing foreign intervention.
The conflict, which began on February 28 following joint U.S. and Israeli military action, has resulted in more than 2,000 deaths, according to available estimates, underscoring the urgency of de-escalation efforts amid conflicting narratives over diplomacy.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
