Iran retracts denial of US talks, fueling speculation

Iranian official sources have withdrawn earlier statements denying any contact or negotiations with US President Donald Trump’s administration, in a move that has sparked questions about behind-the-scenes diplomacy.

The sudden reversal comes hours after Trump confirmed a round of talks involving his envoys Steve Whitkof and Jared Kushner. Observers suggest the retraction may signal the credibility of reports on intense Egyptian and Turkish mediation aimed at defusing a potential “energy war.”

Experts view the shift through two lenses: diplomatically, Tehran may be allowing regional mediators to work without embarrassment from repeated public denials; tactically, it could be an effort to absorb US pressure and calm markets while awaiting the outcome of “exchanged messages” on protecting energy facilities.

Despite retracting the denial, Iran has maintained a “cautious silence” without confirming the meetings directly, leaving the region in uncertainty. While Trump emphasizes a “complete and comprehensive solution” on the horizon, Iran appears to be quietly recalibrating its negotiating position.