Iran and U.S. Continue Secret Talks on Middle East Ceasefire, Despite Political Rift

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that despite significant ideological differences, communication channels regarding Middle East conflicts remain open between Iran and the United States.

After a cabinet meeting, Al Arabiya News quoted Araghchi as saying, “The communication channels between us and the Americans still exist.” He acknowledged that there have been deep-rooted differences between the two nations.

“We have differences with the Americans, which are sometimes very fundamental and central and may not be resolved, but we must manage them to reduce their costs and decrease the tensions,” he added.

This statement follows Araghchi’s remarks on October 14, when he disclosed that secret negotiations with the U.S. regarding a Middle East ceasefire had been suspended during his visit to Muscat, Oman.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed Araghchi’s position on November 12, stating that, whether liked or not, engagement with the United States will eventually be necessary and that it would be better to manage this issue directly.

Iran signed a nuclear agreement with major world powers in 2015 to ease international sanctions. However, tensions have persisted since the Trump administration withdrew from the agreement in 2018.