Iran's Baghaei says no current talks with US after Trump says negotiations begin today

According to the Khaleej Times, Iranian official Esmail Baghaei has formally denied that any current negotiations are taking place between Tehran and Washington. This statement follows recent claims made by US President-elect Donald Trump, who suggested that discussions between the two nations had already commenced. The discrepancy highlights the ongoing tension and lack of formal communication channels between the two governments as the new US administration prepares to take office.

This development comes amidst broader reports of shifting dynamics in the Middle East, including recent market fluctuations and concerns regarding regional security. While Al Jazeera has noted that US stocks are nearing record highs and oil prices have fallen following Trump's assertion that talks were underway, the Iranian denial introduces significant uncertainty regarding the feasibility of a diplomatic breakthrough. Analysts continue to monitor the situation closely, particularly given the heightened threat levels to oil tankers and other regional infrastructure.

As of now, there has been no further clarification from the US side regarding the specific nature or participants of the alleged negotiations mentioned by Trump. The conflicting narratives underscore the complexity of US-Iran relations, which remain a central focus of international policy. Observers remain cautious, noting that public statements from both sides often serve as strategic messaging rather than reflections of actual back-channel progress.