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.