Iran Holds Direct Talks with the US: No Return to Negotiations Without Israel Ceasefire

According to reports from Reuters, there have been multiple phone conversations between U.S. special envoy Steve Wittkopf and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi since Israel launched attacks on Iran last week. Three diplomats, speaking under anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, revealed that these communications were part of an effort to find a diplomatic resolution to the conflict between Tehran and Israel. The diplomats noted that Araghchi stated Iran would not return to negotiations until Israel halts its attacks, which began on June 13. Additionally, discussions included a brief review of the U.S. proposal given to Iran at the end of May, aimed at creating a regional partnership for uranium enrichment outside Iran—a proposal thus far rejected by Tehran. American and Iranian officials did not immediately respond to Reuters’ requests for comment. This week’s phone talks represent the most substantial direct discussions since April when both nations initiated talks in Oman and Italy. A regional diplomat close to Tehran told Wittkopf that flexibility on nuclear issues could be possible if Washington pressured Israel to end the war. European and other world powers are also involved in coordinating efforts with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio as they attempt to mediate the escalating tensions.