Iran Suspends Indirect Talks With US Over Israel’s Lebanon Operations, Tasnim Reports

Iran has suspended indirect negotiations with the United States in response to Israel’s ongoing military operations in Lebanon, according to Iranian state-affiliated Tasnim news agency reports, marking a sharp setback in fragile diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington.

The suspension is said to affect back-channel communications conducted through mediators as regional tensions escalate following intensified Israeli strikes against Hezbollah-linked targets in Lebanon.

Tasnim reported that the decision was taken after Israel expanded its military activities in Lebanon, which Iran described as a violation of regional ceasefire understandings tied to broader negotiations.

Iranian officials argue that continued Israeli operations have made diplomatic engagement with the U.S. untenable at this stage, insisting that discussions cannot proceed while hostilities persist in Lebanon.

The indirect talks, which had been ongoing through intermediary states, were part of broader efforts to reduce tensions over nuclear issues, sanctions relief, and regional security arrangements.

No new date has been announced for resumption, and Iranian officials have not indicated what conditions would be required to restart negotiations.

The decision comes as the Israel–Hezbollah conflict intensifies, raising fears of a broader regional escalation involving multiple fronts across the Middle East.

Analysts warn that the breakdown in U.S.–Iran communication could further complicate attempts to stabilize the situation, particularly around sensitive flashpoints such as Lebanon and maritime routes in the Gulf.

There has been no immediate response from Washington regarding Iran’s move, but diplomatic observers say the suspension highlights how quickly regional conflicts are disrupting already fragile negotiations.

The situation remains fluid, with both sides reportedly maintaining back-channel awareness despite the formal pause in talks.