Iran confirms indirect talks with US through Pakistan, Qatar, Oman

Iran has confirmed that it is continuing to exchange indirect messages with the United States through regional mediators, including Pakistan, Qatar and Oman, while accusing Washington of violating previous agreements and undermining diplomatic efforts.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said Tehran remains open to diplomacy, but stressed that the country’s immediate priority is defending its sovereignty, territorial integrity and citizens amid what he described as ongoing US attacks.

In an interview with Austria’s ORF television network, Baghaei confirmed that communication channels between Iran and the United States remain open through intermediaries.

He said Pakistan, Qatar and Oman are facilitating the exchange of messages between Tehran and Washington, adding that indirect diplomatic contacts are continuing despite ongoing tensions.

However, he argued that meaningful dialogue requires a solid foundation, which he claimed had been undermined by the United States.

Diplomacy undermined during negotiations

Baghaei said Iran entered negotiations in good faith and eventually reached a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States aimed at ending the conflict and addressing several issues, including maritime security.

According to the spokesperson, Iran fulfilled its obligations under the agreement, including its commitment during the 30-day implementation period to ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

He alleged that the United States violated the agreement by launching military attacks before the 30-day period expired, describing it as another instance in which diplomacy had been sabotaged.