Trump insists talks with Iran are underway despite Tehran’s denial

US President Donald Trump continues to claim that negotiations to end the war with Iran are in progress, even as Iranian officials publicly deny that any talks are taking place.

Speaking at the White House, Trump said the US was in contact with “the right people” and suggested Tehran was eager to reach an agreement. He added that Iran wanted to make a deal “so badly” and hinted at a “very big present” tied to “oil and gas”.

The remarks come amid a widening disconnect between the two sides’ public positions. Iranian officials have already dismissed similar claims as “fake news”, while acknowledging only that indirect messages have been passed through third countries.

At the same time, reports have emerged that Washington has proposed a 15-point framework to end the war. According to media accounts, the plan includes dismantling Iran’s nuclear programme and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies that has been heavily restricted during the conflict.

The broader context suggests pressure on multiple fronts. In the United States, public support for the war appears to be weakening. A recent poll found that 61 percent of Americans disapprove of the strikes on Iran, a figure that has risen over the past week.

Regionally, mediation efforts are ongoing. Countries including Pakistan are reportedly acting as intermediaries, relaying proposals and messages between Washington and Tehran.

Analysts say Iran’s position is likely shaped by both security and economic considerations. As one expert noted, Tehran would seek to end the conflict on its own terms, ensuring deterrence against future attacks while also pursuing economic gains — potentially including sanctions relief and compensation for war damage.

On the ground, however, there is no sign of de-escalation. Israeli operations continue, with officials stating their strategy is “unchanged”, while Iran has maintained and intensified missile and drone attacks across the region. A strike was also reported near Iran’s Bushehr nuclear facility, though authorities said it caused no damage.

Meanwhile, the US appears to be preparing for the possibility of a prolonged conflict, with reports of additional troop deployments to the Middle East.