The New York Times revealed that officials from Iran's intelligence agency had indirect communication with the United States through an intelligence agency of a third country, aiming to explore the possibility of opening a channel for discussion to de-escalate and end the conflict, at a time when Tehran denied the report and considered it part of a «psychological war».The American newspaper, citing informed officials, reported that these communications took place through covert intelligence channels typically used during crises to convey indirect messages between conflicting parties.It clarified that the communication was not direct between Tehran and Washington, but was conducted through an intelligence intermediary from a third country, in an attempt to determine whether it was possible to explore paths to reduce tension.According to the report, American officials handled these signals cautiously, considering them an attempt to test positions or gauge the pulse of the US administration, and not necessarily a precursor to official negotiations.In response, Tehran denied the accuracy of the report, as Iranian media quoted officials as saying that what The New York Times published «has no basis in truth» and considered it part of a «psychological and media war».This comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with ongoing unofficial diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis and prevent the escalation of the confrontation.
