Iran confirms direct contact with US amid ongoing war
What's the story
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has confirmed that he is in direct contact with the United States special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. However, he stressed that these exchanges do not constitute negotiations between Tehran and Washington. In an interview with Al Jazeera, Araghchi said he receives messages from Witkoff directly or through regional intermediaries. "I receive messages from Witkoff directly, as before, and this does not mean that we are in negotiations," he clarified.
Proposal response
Iran has not responded to US proposal
Araghchi also revealed that Iran has not responded to a reported 15-point proposal from the United States. He said Tehran has not submitted any counter-conditions either. He highlighted Iran's mistrust by referencing past experiences, including the collapse of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, and noted that Tehran has little confidence in renewed talks.
Mistrust expressed
'Trust level at zero'
Araghchi expressed deep mistrust toward negotiations with the US, citing past experiences where agreements fell through. "We do not have any faith that negotiations with the US will yield any results. The trust level is at zero," he said, adding, "We don't see honesty." Iran's foreign minister also spoke about Iran's strategic use of the Strait of Hormuz during wartime, saying it lies within Oman and Iran's territorial waters.
Conflict status
War continues to escalate despite claims of progressing negotiations
The Iran-US-Israel war, which started on February 28 under "Operation Epic Fury," continues to escalate. The conflict has intensified across key regions like the Strait of Hormuz. Despite this, US President Donald Trump has claimed negotiations are progressing toward a potential deal soon. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also said talks with Iran were "continuing and going well."