The United States government has said diplomatic engagement with Iran is still ongoing, even as tensions remain high over the protracted conflict in the Middle East.
The White House disclosed that discussions had not collapsed, despite reports suggesting that Tehran rejected a peace proposal put forward by the administration of Donald Trump.
Iranian state media, however, quoted an unnamed official as indicating that the country responded negatively to the reported initiative, as the war approaches its fourth week.
Addressing reporters, Karoline Leavitt stated that negotiations were still in progress, adding that the talks remained productive.
She noted that while some details reported in the media about a proposed 15-point framework were accurate, other aspects were not entirely correct.
Reports from international media suggested that the proposal included demands for Iran to abandon its nuclear programme and dismantle its ballistic missile capabilities, though there has been no official confirmation.
The US government has yet to identify the representatives engaging on behalf of Iran, especially following reports of the killing of Ali Khamenei.
There are indications that Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf may be involved in the discussions, given his influence within Iran’s political system.
The spokesperson also declined to confirm whether top US officials, including Vice President JD Vance, would meet Iranian officials in Pakistan, which has been mentioned as a possible mediator.
At the same time, Washington warned that Iran must take steps towards an agreement or face intensified military action.
Leavitt said the US believes it is close to achieving its objectives under its ongoing military operation, stressing that further escalation remains an option.
She added that the US president is prepared to take stronger measures if Iran fails to respond positively to diplomatic efforts.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that additional US troops and military assets are being deployed to the Gulf region, raising concerns about a possible expansion of the conflict.
In response, Ghalibaf warned that any attempt to invade Iranian territory would attract serious consequences, reflecting growing fears of further escalation.
The White House maintained its earlier projection that the conflict could last between four and six weeks, as global attention remains focused on efforts to prevent a wider crisis.
