Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei announced during a press conference in Tehran that indirect diplomatic communications with the United States remain active. Despite recent military strikes exchanged between US and Iranian forces, Baghaei confirmed that third-party mediators have continued conveying messages and strategic ideas between Washington and Tehran to keep diplomatic channels open.

The announcement brought immediate relief to global energy markets, easing fears of an unchecked escalation in Middle Eastern conflict. Crude oil prices pulled back slightly after reaching a one-month high, as investors reacted to signs that both nations are maintaining backchannel communications despite ongoing military tensions and regional strikes.

Prior to Tehran’s statement, global oil benchmarks had surged due to concerns over potential shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage carrying roughly 20% of the world’s seaborne oil supply. Brent crude briefly surpassed $91 per barrel—its highest level since mid-June—before settling back near $89 following news of the active diplomatic exchange.