On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump stated that the United States is currently “in negotiations right now” with Iran, highlighting active diplomatic efforts amid the ongoing conflict. During a press briefing at the White House, Trump mentioned that several senior officials are engaged in discussions with Iranian representatives. He expressed that both sides are interested in reaching an agreement, saying, “We have a number of people doing it. And the other side, I can tell you, they’d like to make a deal.”

Participants in the Negotiations

Trump identified key figures involved in the negotiations with Tehran, including Steve Witkoff, who serves as the US Special Envoy to the Middle East, his son-in-law Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Vice President JD Vance, and himself. Trump emphasized their collective roles, stating, “If Iran had a nuclear weapon, it would have used it. If I didn’t end the horrible Barack Hussein Obama Iran nuclear deal in my first administration, they would have had a nuclear weapon 3 or 4 years ago.”

Recent Developments

The President’s comments followed his assertion that Iran is eager to finalize a deal to conclude the ongoing conflict, which has now entered its fourth week. Trump described recent conversations between US diplomats and Iranian officials as “very good” and “productive.” He also noted that he had temporarily postponed military strikes on Iranian power plants and energy facilities to create room for negotiation. Trump highlighted that discussions over the weekend involving Kushner and Witkoff with unnamed Iranian officials had been optimistic.

Iran’s Official Response

Despite Trump’s remarks, Iranian officials have firmly rejected the notion that any negotiations are occurring with the United States. Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, stated, “No negotiations have been held with the US,” accusing Washington of disseminating “fake news” aimed at impacting global financial and oil markets. Iranian officials have characterized Trump’s statements about interactions with the White House as attempts to influence market dynamics during times of increased tension.

Iran’s Preferences for Negotiators

Iran has signaled through informal channels that it would prefer to engage in discussions with Vice President JD Vance rather than with Witkoff or Kushner. This preference stems from a belief that Vance is more willing to pursue a resolution to the conflict. Reports suggest that the Iranian perspective views Vance as someone who would focus on ending hostilities. However, the White House has rejected these assertions, emphasizing that decisions regarding negotiations are solely made by President Trump, who affirmed the involvement of Vance, Rubio, Witkoff, and Kushner in the upcoming talks.

Future Negotiations and Regional Context

Possible meetings between US and Iranian officials may take place later this week in a location such as Islamabad. These discussions are expected to occur against the backdrop of increased tensions across the Middle East, which have influenced global oil markets, particularly affecting shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz. This vital channel is responsible for approximately 20% of the world’s crude oil supply, making the current negotiations particularly significant in the context of regional stability and international energy security.

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