Araqchi confirmed in statements to Iran’s ‘Tasnim’ that what has been published by some Western media outlets is unfounded. He clarified that “communication between Tehran and Washington takes place either directly through message exchanges or through intermediaries if needed,” emphasizing that no direct contact or dialogue has occurred.
Araqchi’s denial came in response to Western media reports that claimed he held talks with Witkoff and proposed initiating immediate negotiations leading to a temporary agreement, followed by discussions about a final agreement. This comes amid renewed debate over the future of negotiations between the two countries and the role of regional mediation.
Israeli strikes have led to the deaths of several prominent nuclear scientists, military leaders, and Iranian officials, including the notable figures of Revolutionary Guard Commander Hossein Salami, Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri, and Commander of the Aerospace Forces in the Revolutionary Guard Amir Ali Hajizadeh.
The first rounds of negotiation between the United States and Iran regarding the Iranian nuclear program began on April 12, 2025, in the Omani capital, Muscat. The Omani embassy in Rome hosted the second round of negotiations on April 19, and the third round convened again in Muscat on April 26.
On May 11, 2025, the fourth round of negotiations took place in Muscat, Oman, and both the United States and Iran expressed optimism about the nuclear negotiations. The fifth round was held on the 23rd of the same month in the capital, Rome.
