Axios: Direct Iran-US Talks Amid War

According to Axios, a direct communication line between US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been reactivated. This marks the first known direct contact since the start of the war.

Abbas Araghchi reportedly sent text messages to Steve Witkoff, focusing on efforts to end the war. A US official claimed that Araghchi was the one who sought to open a communication channel, emphasizing that the US is 'not in talks' with Iran.

US President Donald Trump stated that Iran has contacted the United States, but it remains unclear whether Iranian officials are authorized to negotiate an agreement. A senior US official rejected Tehran's request for 'compensation' but stated that Trump would be open to an agreement that would allow Iran to join the global economy.

Iranian officials maintain that they are not conducting ceasefire negotiations with the Trump administration, seeking guarantees for a permanent peace agreement. US officials believe that Araghchi does not have the final authority to conclude an agreement.