The United States is waiting for Iran to decide whether to join proposed high-level talks that could begin within days as President Donald Trump signals interest in a deal to wind down fighting centered on the Strait of Hormuz, while Israel and regional mediators gauge whether diplomacy will take hold.
Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey have relayed messages between Washington and Tehran as officials explore convening talks as soon as this week.
Iranian officials have confirmed receiving U.S. proposals but have publicly denied that direct negotiations are underway.
Trump said Tuesday that U.S. officials were "talking to the right people" and that Iranian leaders "want to make a deal badly," underscoring Washington's effort to test whether a negotiated exit from the conflict is possible even as military operations continue.
Israeli officials are concerned Washington could accept limited Iranian concessions that fall short of Israel's war objectives and could restrict its ability to conduct future strikes.
They also expressed skepticism about U.S. assertions that Tehran has indicated willingness to meet key demands tied to its nuclear program and regional activities.
Speaking on Tuesday, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said, "As President Trump and his negotiators explore this newfound possibility of diplomacy, Operation Epic Fury continues unabated to achieve the military objectives laid out by the commander in chief and the Pentagon."
Officials familiar with the diplomacy said Washington has outlined a detailed framework addressing uranium enrichment, ballistic missile limits, and Iran's support for proxy groups.
The exact terms of any proposal and whether senior Iranian leaders have agreed to specific nuclear concessions remain unclear.
A mediator involved in the talks has floated the idea of a temporary ceasefire to create space for negotiations, according to officials familiar with the discussions.
U.S. officials have indicated that they prefer to continue military pressure during any diplomatic effort to preserve leverage.
Fighting tied to the confrontation has already disrupted commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, contributing to oil price volatility and forcing some tanker operators and insurers to reassess transit through the waterway.
The impact on energy markets and maritime trade has increased pressure on both Washington and Tehran to test whether diplomacy can slow the escalation.
Reuters contributed to this report.
Jim Thomas ✉
Jim Thomas is a writer based in Indiana. He holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science, a law degree from U.I.C. Law School, and has practiced law for more than 20 years.
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