Trump denies receiving Iranian notification of suspended talks

US President Donald Trump has dismissed reports of an official suspension of talks with Iran, stating that Tehran has not informed Washington of any interruption in negotiations. This statement came after Iranian media reported that Iran had halted communication with the United States.

In an interview with NBC News on Monday, Trump said: "They haven't informed us of that." He appeared relaxed about a potential communication pause, explaining: "I think we've been talking too much if you want to know the truth. I think going silent would be very good, and that could be for a long time." However, the President emphasized that an interruption in talks would not lead to military action: "It doesn't mean we're going to go and start dropping bombs all over there. We'll just go silent. We'll keep the blockade."

Earlier, Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that Tehran had suspended all exchanges with mediators to end the conflict with the US as a result of Israel's escalating attacks on Lebanon. According to the report, Iran is demanding the "immediate cessation" of Israeli military operations in Gaza and Lebanon as a precondition for resuming talks.

The negotiations between the US and Iran are taking place within the framework of broader regional mediation efforts involving several international actors. Pakistan is playing a leading role as mediator, while Qatar and Switzerland are providing supporting functions. Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani held talks with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis about mediation efforts between Tehran and Washington.

Qatar's Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani discussed regional developments in a phone call with Trump, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing diplomacy and dialogue among all parties to prevent further escalation in the Middle East. Trump expressed appreciation for Qatar's support of Pakistani mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran, praising Doha's role in "bridging differences."

Despite conflicting reports about the status of talks, Trump stated that negotiations were continuing "at a rapid pace." This assertion contrasts with Iranian reports of suspended communication, highlighting uncertainty about the actual state of diplomatic efforts.

Tensions between the US and Iran have escalated against the backdrop of ongoing Israeli military operations in Lebanon and Gaza. An adviser to Iran's supreme leader, Mohsen Rezaee, warned that "patience of the armed forces has its limits" and that Iran would not tolerate continued US military blockade. Iran also reportedly threatened to close the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

The international community is watching developments with concern, as an escalation between the US and Iran could have far-reaching implications for regional stability. The role of mediating countries is seen as crucial for maintaining dialogue and preventing military confrontation. While various parties provide different accounts of the current status of talks, the situation remains volatile and requires continuous diplomatic efforts for de-escalation.