US is in contact with Qatar, but there are no signs of any new direct contact between US and Iranian officials

Odaily Planet Daily News: A source familiar with the discussions stated that following the sharp escalation of attacks between the US and Iran this week, US Vice President Vance, along with US envoys Witkoff and Kushner, have been in contact with Qatari officials this week. It remains unclear how much progress was made on Friday, as mediators from Qatar, Pakistan, and other countries work to de-escalate tensions sparked earlier this week by an Iranian attack on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

The US responded with intensive strikes on at least 170 targets within two days, which in turn provoked new Iranian attacks against US allies in the Persian Gulf. Iran has also confirmed that it is in discussions with mediators, but there is no indication of any new direct contact between US and Iranian officials. (Jinshi Data)