Iran's Foreign Ministry announced that a communication channel is open between Tehran and US President Donald Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei explained in a statement broadcast on state television on Monday (January 12, 2025): "This communication channel is open between our Foreign Minister (Abbas Araqchi) and the US President's special envoy," referring to Steve Witkoff.
Earlier that morning, US President Donald Trump said that Iran's leadership had contacted him requesting negotiations, following his threats of military action amid anti-government protests in the Islamic Republic.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, he explained that a meeting was being planned and that "they want to negotiate," but noted that the United States might have to take action before the meeting took place.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman emphasized that an exchange of messages takes place between Foreign Minister Araqchi and the US envoy "whenever necessary," reminding everyone that the United States does not have diplomatic representation in Iran, but that the Swiss embassy represents US interests.
Iranian Foreign Ministry: Communication channel is open with the US President's envoy
