Iran has indicated a potential shift in its posture toward the United States, with senior officials reportedly approving exploratory talks and a possible agreement, raising cautious optimism over a diplomatic breakthrough amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
According to reports by Al Arabiya, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, conveyed the development to US envoy Steve Witkoff, citing information originally published by Yedioth Ahronoth.
The report claimed that Iran’s leadership had endorsed discussions with Washington, with approval attributed to Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, signalling a rare willingness to engage after weeks of heightened hostilities.
The development comes amid sharply contrasting narratives from both sides.
On Monday, US President Donald Trump said Washington had held “very good and productive conversations” with Iranian representatives and hinted at progress toward easing tensions. His remarks came just hours before Iran reportedly launched missile strikes targeting Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities.
Trump also delayed previously planned military action against Iranian energy infrastructure following his comments, suggesting a possible recalibration of US strategy.
However, Iranian authorities have publicly pushed back against claims of direct engagement. The Speaker of Parliament, Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, dismissed reports of negotiations as “fake news”, alleging they were designed to influence markets and misrepresent Tehran’s position.
Key details surrounding any prospective agreement — including its scope, terms and level of US involvement — remain unclear, with neither Tehran nor Washington issuing formal confirmation.
Analysts warn that deep-seated mistrust between both countries could continue to hinder progress, even as signals of potential dialogue raise hopes for de-escalation in a volatile region.
