JD VANCE: U.S. Is Now Speaking Directly With Iran, Extends 'Open Hand'
JD Vance says the United States is now communicating directly with Iran rather than through backchannels, offering improved relations if Tehran changes its relationship with Washington.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance said Monday that Washington is now communicating directly with Iranian officials, signaling a potential shift in diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
Speaking about ongoing contacts with Tehran, Vance said the United States is no longer relying on indirect channels to communicate with the Iranian government.
"We are now speaking directly to the Iranian system. We have some good relationships there," Vance said.
"We are not passing messages through backchannels anymore; we are actually talking to them," he added. "When you talk to them, you figure out what's real, what's fake, what they're serious about, and what they're not serious about."
The comments suggest a more direct diplomatic approach by the Trump administration as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to evolve following recent regional developments.
Vance also extended what he described as an offer to improve relations if Iran is willing to change its approach toward the United States.
"We are extending an open hand to Iran," Vance said. "If they want to change their relationship with us, we will change our relationship with Iran. That's the offer."
The remarks come amid heightened international attention on U.S.-Iran relations and ongoing discussions over regional security, sanctions, and the future of diplomatic engagement between the two longtime adversaries.