Diplomatic efforts have intensified between Washington and Tehran to reduce rising tensions in recent days. Both sides are reported to be working to restore dialogue through direct and indirect channels.
According to information released by CNN, Washington is taking steps to reactivate a secret communication channel with Tehran. A U.S. official noted that after the recent mutual military activities, both sides prioritize diplomatic channels to ensure the situation does not escalate.
Mediation talks and U.S. strategy
Qatar and Pakistan are noted to play an active mediation role in the process of restoring talks. The U.S. current strategy is reported to be based on a "strikes and pauses" tactic. According to this approach, Washington creates space for diplomacy by pausing military operations to prevent escalation of tensions. At the same time, the U.S. continues to maintain pressure on Iran while keeping technical talks related to the nuclear program on the agenda.
Tense situation in the region
On July 9, Iran's state media revealed that strikes were carried out on military facilities in two cities in the country. However, U.S. officials stated that the attacks in question were not carried out by the American military. Israel also indicated it had no connection to these incidents.
Additionally, a phone call took place between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The leaders agreed to coordinate on regional security and cooperation issues.
Economic and domestic political impacts
Rising security risks have also affected global trade. Following attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, maritime shipping has declined sharply and fallen to minimal levels.
On the other hand, domestic political processes in Iran are also in focus. The funeral ceremonies of the country's late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have concluded. International observers have closely followed the absence of his son Mujtaba Khamenei, who is seen as his successor, during the ceremony.