The White House on Monday said that communication between the United States and Iran is ongoing and progressing well, even as Tehran reiterated that there have been no direct talks between the two sides.

Addressing reporters, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said diplomatic engagement continues through backchannels despite public rhetoric suggesting otherwise.

White House Signals Progress

Leavitt said that while Iran’s public stance may appear confrontational, private communications indicate a different picture.

“Despite all of the public posturing you hear from the regime and false reporting, talks are continuing and going well. What is said publicly is much different than what’s being communicated to us privately,” she said.

She added that elements within Iran are increasingly inclined towards negotiations, suggesting momentum towards possible engagement.

The White House maintained that indirect discussions remain active and are yielding progress.

Iran Denies Direct Negotiations

Earlier in the day, Iran clarified that it has not held any direct negotiations with the United States, though it acknowledged the exchange of messages through intermediaries.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said that communications have been routed through third countries, including Pakistan, regarding Washington’s interest in talks.

“We have not had any direct negotiations with the US. What has been discussed are messages received through intermediaries,” he said, according to state media.

Baghaei also criticised the US, accusing it of inconsistency in its position, while asserting that Iran’s stance on negotiations has remained unchanged.

Warning From Washington

Leavitt also issued a warning, stating that if Iran does not engage constructively or rejects a potential agreement, the United States has multiple options to respond.

She said President Donald Trump is prepared to ensure that Iran “continues to pay a grave price one way or another” if diplomatic efforts fail.

The developments come amid heightened tensions in West Asia, with both sides maintaining cautious engagement while publicly projecting contrasting positions on negotiations.

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