• Iran and the U.S. are exchanging messages via intermediaries, with Iran reviewing Washington's latest response.
  • The 14-point proposal broadens talks beyond nuclear issues to include security guarantees and sanctions relief.
  • Market watchers eye potential impacts on energy flows and crude prices amid cautious diplomacy.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday that indirect messaging with the United States continues, centered on Tehran's 14-point peace proposal, according to Iranian media. The spokesperson noted that Iran is reviewing Washington's latest reply, transmitted through Pakistan, and that the exchange remains at a back-channel stage rather than formal negotiations.

The 14-point framework marks an expansion from earlier, narrower nuclear-focused discussions. It incorporates Iranian demands for binding security guarantees, withdrawal or redeployment of regional forces, and broad sanctions relief, while preserving its right to peaceful uranium enrichment. The U.S. position, as reported by people familiar with the matter, links progress to verifiable constraints on Iran's nuclear program and regional activities.

"We are examining the U.S. response, and the exchange of messages will proceed based on the framework of the 14-point proposal," the spokesperson said, declining to provide a timeline for a formal reply.

The diplomatic channel, operated through Pakistan, has seen intermittent activity for weeks. While both sides describe the process as constructive, no breakthrough has been announced. The talks unfold against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions, including ongoing Israeli operations and U.S. military deployments, which complicate trust-building.

For markets, the stalemate over Iran's nuclear program and sanctions remains a key variable. Traders are watching for signs of progress that could unlock Iranian crude exports and affect global supplies, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices have shown volatility in recent weeks, with Brent crude fluctuating as diplomatic news emerges.

Analysts note that without a deal, Iran faces continued economic pressure, while the U.S. risks prolonged instability in the Gulf. "The 14-point proposal reflects Iran's push for a comprehensive settlement, but both sides remain far apart on nuclear constraints," said a regional policy analyst. "The next few weeks will be critical to see if this messaging translates into real negotiations."

Efforts to reach U.S. State Department officials for comment were unsuccessful. Iran's proposal builds on earlier nine-point frameworks and signals a shift toward broader political talks, but skepticism remains high given past failures.

Correction: An earlier version of this article mischaracterized the proposal as final; it remains under review.