Axios, citing two unnamed U.S. officials, reported yesterday that the White House is seriously considering an Iranian proposal for indirect nuclear talks, while at the same time significantly boosting U.S. forces in the Middle East in case President Trump opts for military strikes. The White House, Axios says, is still engaged in an internal debate between those who think a deal is achievable, and those who see talks as a waste of time and support strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities.
The U.S. officials said the Trump administration thinks direct talks would have a higher chance of success, but isn’t ruling out the format the Iranians proposed, and doesn’t object to the Omanis serving as mediators between the countries, as the Gulf state has in the past. Both U.S. officials said no decision has yet been made and that internal discussions are ongoing. “After the exchange of letters, we are now exploring next steps in order to begin conversations and trust building with the Iranians,” one said.
[According to Middle East Spectator](https://t.me/Middle_East_Spectator/17018 ), the Iranian Foreign Ministry issued the following statement: “Despite initially insisting on direct negotiations, the U.S. has now stated it is open for indirect negotiations with Iran. If these negotiations are conducted in a setting of mutual respect, not with threats or blackmail, then we will consider it.”
