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Secretary of War Pete Hegseth stated that the United States is open to a negotiated peace deal with Iran but will continue military operations until a deal is reached.

Getting into it: While speaking at a Cabinet meeting, Secretary Hegseth made clear that diplomacy and military force are proceeding simultaneously, saying, “we pray for a deal, and we welcome a deal,” while stressing that “the Department of War will continue negotiating with bombs.” Hegseth also said that Trump is the “ultimate dealmaker” capable of securing an agreement.

Despite these remarks, Iran has publicly denied that any direct negotiations are taking place, even as US officials insist that talks are underway. At the same Cabinet meeting, Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that a formal proposal has been delivered to Iran. He said, “We have…presented a 15-point action list that forms the framework for a peace deal,” with Witkoff confirming that Pakistan was acting as a mediator.

He added that the outreach has generated “strong and positive messaging and talks,” while stressing that discussions remain “confidential rather than negotiate publicly.”

On the other side, Iranian state media has outlined a set of demands to end the conflict, which includes a “complete halt to aggression and assassinations,” guarantees that war will not resume, and “clearly defined payment of war damages and reparations.” Additionally, Iran is demanding recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically critical global oil route, and insists that any agreement must apply across all regional fronts and allied groups.