The comments represent the clearest recent indication from Trump that his administration sees a potential diplomatic pathway out of the nearly seven-month conflict — although there has been no announcement of a final agreement or ceasefire.
Iran’s position remains more cautious
Trump’s description of “direct contacts” is quite apart from what Tehran has publicly confirmed. Iranian officials have previously disputed or played down claims of direct negotiations with Washington, while maintaining that any diplomatic process must protect Iran’s sovereignty and interests.
On Wednesday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing. Wang called on Washington and Tehran to exercise restraint, revive their June interim peace agreement and return to substantive negotiations.
Araghchi said Iran remained prepared to defend itself but was open to diplomatic avenues that protected Iranian rights.