INTEL: JD Vance proposes direct talks with Iran in behind-the-scenes push for a new ceasefire
US Vice President JD Vance is leading behind-the-scenes efforts to secure a new ceasefire with Iran and restart nuclear negotiations, Axios reported. According to the report, he has proposed resuming direct negotiations with Tehran. The effort is still developing.
Axios said Vance has held near-daily talks with mediators from Qatar and Pakistan. Citing two sources, it reported that he took part in indirect talks with Iran aimed at halting the fighting and resuming negotiations. He and the mediators also discussed the possibility of an expert-level meeting between Washington and Tehran.
Axios also reported that Trump envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are taking part in the discussions on reaching a deal with Iran.
Trump allows diplomacy, strikes still possible
Citing US officials, Axios reported that Trump is willing for now to give diplomacy room to work. US forces nonetheless remain ready for renewed strikes, according to the report. Progress has reportedly been slow.
Qatar denies reports of failed talks
Separately, the Qatari International Media Office denied reports that the US and Iran had failed to reach a deal. The statement as supplied does not say which reports it was addressing, and it does not describe the state of the talks beyond that denial.
No public confirmation from the White House or Iranian officials was included in the material available for this article.
