Axios: Iran and US Communicate Directly Amid War

According to Axios, a direct communication channel has been reactivated between the US special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and the Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi. This marks the first known direct contact between the two sides since the start of the war.

The content of the messages remains unknown, with conflicting information about who made the first move. Sources report that Abbas Araghchi sent text messages to Steve Witkoff, focusing on efforts to end the war.

US President Donald Trump stated that Iran has contacted the United States, but it remains unclear whether the Iranian officials are authorized to negotiate a deal.

US officials consider Araghchi a key interlocutor due to the prior communication relationship. Iranian officials claim they are not conducting ceasefire negotiations with the Trump administration, seeking guarantees for a permanent peace agreement.