Updated

Iran publicly denied President Trump's assertion that negotiations with Washington were under way, saying instead that it was in contact with Oman but not directly with the United States. Trump responded with a strong condemnation of Iran's leadership. Qatar separately confirmed that its mediation efforts between the two sides were continuing, but said no direct talks were currently planned. US officials, meanwhile, briefed that a US-Iran deal could be signed within 48 hours, adding to the conflicting public messaging. The mixed signals underline how fragile the diplomatic track remains, with indirect channels through Gulf intermediaries carrying the burden of de-escalation after the recent war between the US, Israel and Iran.