The United States and Iran have responded to a proposal from Pakistan and Qatar aimed at restarting bilateral negotiations. Meanwhile, reports indicate Tehran remains open to dialogue despite suspending formal talks.
Pakistan And Qatar Push Diplomatic Efforts
According to Al Arabiya and Al Hadath, both the United States and Iran submitted responses to the joint proposal. However, neither side has publicly disclosed the contents of their replies.
A source told the broadcasters that Iran has suspended negotiations rather than withdrawn from them. Furthermore, the source said Tehran remains willing to continue dialogue under the existing US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding.
The source also claimed Iran informed Pakistani officials that it rejected the creation of a new corridor in the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iranian authorities have not publicly commented on the reported communication.
Trump Pauses Strikes While Pursuing Diplomacy
The reported diplomatic developments followed a second consecutive night without US military strikes on Iran. Previously, US President Donald Trump had approved daily strike plans during nearly two weeks of military operations.
According to Axios, Trump reviewed another proposed strike plan on Friday but declined to authorise new attacks. Instead, he instructed the military to suspend further operations.
Later, Trump told reporters that diplomacy represented the “smarter strategy” at this stage. He said discussions with Iranian officials were continuing and expressed optimism about potential progress.
“We’re talking to the Iranians right now,” Trump said. He added that military options remained available while diplomatic efforts continued.
