TEHRAN — Plans for a potential face-to-face meeting between Iranian and US officials aimed at de-escalating tensions face growing uncertainty, as conflicting messages from Washington, Israeli pressure and US military signaling complicate a fragile diplomatic track.

Behind the scenes, Iran and the United States are cautiously exploring diplomacy centered on de-escalation rather than immediate concessions, beginning with a mutual declaration renouncing hostile actions as a way to reduce the risk of miscalculation and open space for sequential talks on nuclear, regional and other issues.

According to a regional diplomatic source, preparations had been underway for talks to take place within days, possibly hosted by Turkey, with Oman, Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan involved as regional facilitators or guarantors. The objective was limited but urgent: to prevent further escalation at a moment of heightened military and political tension across the region.

Public messaging from Washington, however, has continued to emphasize pressure alongside diplomacy. The White House has reiterated that President Donald Trump retains “all options,” including military force, and that Iran understands this reality well. While intended to reinforce deterrence, such statements have added to uncertainty over Washington’s diplomatic ceiling and the scope of any potential talks.