Wall Street Journal Reports Iranian Officials Removed from US-Israel Strike List for Talks

The Wall Street Journal reported that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf have been temporarily removed from the list of Iranian officials who could be targeted by U.S. and Israeli strikes.

Russia's TASS news agency reported early Thursday, citing the Journal, that the decision was made for four to five days to allow U.S. President Donald Trump to pursue high-level negotiations aimed at ending the war.

The New York Times reported that Washington has presented Tehran with a 15-point plan designed to help end the broader Middle East conflict.

Reports indicated recent contacts have taken place between Washington and Tehran through mediators, including Pakistan, as diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes.

Iranian officials have rejected U.S. claims that meaningful or constructive negotiations are currently underway.

The reported pause comes amid high regional tensions, with international actors pushing for a political solution over further military escalation. Iran and the United States have historically relied on indirect channels and third-party mediation during crises, particularly when formal diplomacy is stalled.

Analysts noted that any temporary easing of military pressure on senior Iranian officials could create limited space for trust-building and test the potential for serious talks. If confirmed, the move may signal a short diplomatic opening despite public divisions over peace prospects.