White House Proposes Iran Talks Amis Middle East Tensions

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The White House is discussing with Iran the possibility of a meeting this week between U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, according to a report from Axios.

The objective would be to discuss a diplomatic initiative involving a nuclear deal and an end to the war between Israel and Iran, the Axios reported

According to the report, the meeting hasn't been finalised yet, but it is part of a last-ditch effort by President Trump to swerve away from war and back toward dealmaking.

"A meeting with the Iranians this week is under consideration," a U.S. official confirmed.

President Trump shocked the Middle East with a Truth Social post on Monday night, 16 June 2025, in which he called on Iranian civilians to evacuate Tehran immediately. Shortly thereafter, he cut short his trip to the G7 summit in Canada to return to Washington and focus on the war.

These two moves, together with reports of explosions in Tehran, led to reports in the Israelis press and on social media that the U.S. had joined the war.

White House spokesperson Alex Pfeiffer denied the reports. "American forces are maintaining their defensive posture, and that has not changed. We will defend American interests," he wrote on X.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reiterated that message in an interview on Fox News and stressed Trump is still seeking a deal. "President Trump hopes there will be peace," he said.

The Trump administration discussed the meeting proposal with Iran on Monday, the sources said.

"We are talking on the phone but it is better to talk in person," President Trump said at the G7.

President Trump expressed hope that Iran would agree to make a deal. "I think a deal will be signed. I think Iran is foolish not to sign one," he said.

During the G7 summit, President Trump discussed with other leaders the need for a ceasefire between Iran and Israel, French President Macron told reporters. "The Americans have made an offer to meet with the Iranians. We will see what happens," he said.



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