US media have reported that Iran and the United States have engaged in direct communications in recent days, marking the first such contact since the outbreak of hostilities.

According to the reports, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and US Special Representative Nicholas Witteckoff reactivated a direct communication channel. The messages exchanged reportedly focused on ending the ongoing conflict and exploring avenues for de-escalation.

US media sources claim that Araqchi sent messages to Witteckoff highlighting the need for a ceasefire, while Witteckoff responded with messages relaying the positions of Iranian officials. However, the media noted that some Iranian officials suggested Araqchi might have ignored portions of Witteckoff’s messages, adding uncertainty to the situation.

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In contrast, Iran’s Foreign Ministry officially denied the claims of recent contact, stating that the last exchange between Araqchi and Witteckoff occurred before the start of the war. Tehran emphasized that no new direct communications have taken place since hostilities escalated.

Analysts say the conflicting reports highlight the opacity and complexity of US-Iran diplomacy amid heightened tensions. The alleged contact, if confirmed, would signal a cautious step toward dialogue, but Tehran’s denial has left observers questioning the accuracy of US media claims.

As both sides navigate the fragile situation, international attention remains focused on the Strait of Hormuz and the broader Middle East conflict, where miscommunication or misinformation could escalate the crisis further.