China launches new mediation bid to restart US-Iran dialogue

Senior sources revealed on Sunday that China, in coordination with Pakistan, is leading efforts to de-escalate tensions between the United States and Iran and create conditions for renewed dialogue amid rising regional tensions.

According to the sources, the contacts are focused on keeping communication channels open between Washington and Tehran, paving the way for indirect negotiations on several contentious issues, according to Al Arabiya.

The consultations include discussions on reciprocal confidence-building measures aimed at establishing a suitable foundation for broader talks on Iran's nuclear program, regional security, and the sanctions imposed on Tehran.

The sources added that China's efforts go beyond mediating between the United States and Iran, also involving Gulf states and other regional powers in a political process to support long-term stability in the region.

These moves come amid an unprecedented military escalation, with ongoing US strikes on Iranian targets and the exchange of political messages through intermediaries, in the absence of any publicly announced direct negotiations.

Tehran confirmed yesterday that it continues to exchange messages with Washington through intermediaries, reiterating its commitment to diplomatic solutions while rejecting what it described as "US dominance" over Gulf waterways and the Strait of Hormuz.