TEHRAN – Iran is exploring regional diplomatic initiatives to de-escalate tensions with the United States, expressing optimism over reaching a framework to restart nuclear negotiations in the coming days.
Iranian officials indicated that significant progress is anticipated in developing a renewed dialogue with Washington, amid unconfirmed reports suggesting that Iran’s president has ordered the revival of nuclear talks. Tehran also noted that it is examining several diplomatic proposals presented by regional countries aimed at easing US-Iran tensions.
The announcement coincides with a apparent thaw in diplomatic relations, as both Tehran and Washington appear to be moving away from the threat of military conflict.
According to Reuters, citing anonymous sources from both sides, talks are scheduled to take place this Friday in Istanbul, involving US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Similarly, AFP reported that a “potential meeting” might occur in Turkey on the same day, facilitated by regional mediators including Qatar, Egypt, Oman, and Turkey.
Historically, US and Iranian officials have exchanged messages indirectly, with tensions escalating after US military movements in the Middle East following Iran’s crackdown on protests in January. President Donald Trump initially responded with military posturing but later called for renewed negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program, which had been halted following a series of confrontations, including attacks by Israel and the US in June.
On Sunday, Trump stated that the US is engaging in talks with Iran. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed ongoing indirect negotiations, noting that “countries of the region are acting as mediators in the exchange of messages.” He added that “several points have been addressed, and we are examining and finalizing the details,” with hopes to conclude negotiations soon.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reportedly held phone calls with counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey to discuss recent developments, while sources from Fars news agency indicated that President Masoud Pezeshkian had ordered the resumption of nuclear negotiations—though no official date has been announced.
Meanwhile, negotiations between Iran and US envoy Steve Witkoff are expected to progress, although neither side has officially confirmed a meeting. The White House said Witkoff would arrive in Israel on Tuesday for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
US-Iran Tensions and the Push for a Deal
Recent US military deployments in the Indian Ocean, including aircraft carriers and fighter jets, have heightened concerns over a potential strike against Iran. Trump’s earlier threats came amid mass protests in Iran over economic hardship and the collapse of the national currency, which posed a direct challenge to the government.
However, the US now appears to be prioritizing a nuclear deal, driven by fears that Iran seeks to develop nuclear weapons—an allegation Tehran firmly denies, insisting its program is purely civilian.
Iran has shown some flexibility in negotiations, but US demands—such as ending uranium enrichment, curbing missile development, and halting support for regional armed groups—remain key sticking points. Iran’s regional alliances and missile program are considered non-negotiable by Tehran.
It remains uncertain whether Iran will alter its stance, especially as it seeks sanctions relief to bolster its economy and prevent further unrest. Negotiations that began in Oman in June stalled after Israel’s attack on Iran and subsequent US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
Trump recently claimed Iran is “seriously talking” with the US, while also warning of military movements. Meanwhile, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei issued a stark warning Sunday, stating that any attack would trigger a “regional war,” emphasizing Iran’s readiness to defend itself.