US Official Reveals Exchange of Messages Between Washington, Tehran

Caption: US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Arabian Gulf Affairs Tim Lenderking. AAWSAT AR
Caption: US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Arabian Gulf Affairs Tim Lenderking. AAWSAT AR
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US Official Reveals Exchange of Messages Between Washington, Tehran

Caption: US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Arabian Gulf Affairs Tim Lenderking. AAWSAT AR
Caption: US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Arabian Gulf Affairs Tim Lenderking. AAWSAT AR

A US official revealed that Washington exchanged letters with Iran through channels via mediators from Gulf and other countries, confirming his country’s willingness to negotiate directly with Tehran.

Tim Lenderking, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Arabian Gulf Affairs in the Near East Bureau at the US Department of State said Washington wanted to hold direct negotiations with Tehran but the Iranians refused and continued with their evil actions.

Speaking Wednesday at the 29th Annual Arab-US Policymakers Conference, the US official said there is a US desire, even with the current administration of Donald Trump, to hold talks with Iran.

"One of the most important issues discussed by the current US administration during this important period is Washington’s desire to preserve its good ties in the region, and preserve common interests in the Gulf and the Middle East in general."

Lenderking did not reveal the names of the countries who mediated between the US and Tehran nor the time of the letters. However, the US official hoped that Washington and Tehran could reach a deal to hold direct talks on terms that both sides agree on.



Saudi Ministry of Culture Launches 5th Edition of National Cultural Awards

Saudi Ministry of Culture Launches 5th Edition of National Cultural Awards
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Saudi Ministry of Culture Launches 5th Edition of National Cultural Awards

Saudi Ministry of Culture Launches 5th Edition of National Cultural Awards

The Ministry of Culture has launched the fifth edition of the National Cultural Awards, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to recognizing and honoring outstanding achievements in the Kingdom’s cultural sector.

Nominations for cultural sector awards will soon open to the public and the cultural community. Submissions will be accepted via the dedicated online platform. This will be followed by evaluation and judging processes later begins, culminating in the announcement of winners at the final ceremony.

According to the ministry, this annual initiative celebrates creative excellence and contributions across a wide range of cultural disciplines. Through a growing portfolio of awards, the program highlights both individual and institutional efforts that have helped shape and elevate the national cultural landscape.

For the 2025 edition, two new award categories have been introduced: the Handicrafts Award and the Cultural Media Award. The Handicrafts Award coincides with the ministry’s designation of 2025 as the Year of Handicrafts, spotlighting impactful contributions to traditional crafts, whether in production techniques or cultural knowledge. This category includes one international award that honors initiatives that improve livelihoods and create job opportunities, according to SPA.

The Cultural Media Award recognizes significant work by individuals or organizations in developing cultural discourse and showcasing the cultural sector through various media formats, including print, audio, and digital platforms. It also considers contributions such as literary reviews, cultural reporting, and consistent engagement with cultural events and movements.

These additions join a distinguished set of existing awards: five major prizes reviewed by specialized committees, alongside 11 others across a total of 16 cultural sub-sectors. Together, they reflect the ministry’s commitment to fostering creative talent and honoring cultural heritage.

The National Cultural Awards reflect the ministry’s commitment to supporting cultural production and honoring those enriching the Kingdom’s artistic and creative heritage.