Reuters said the statement came amid military tensions and indirect diplomacy via Qatar and Oman, with market pricing showing 2.3% odds of an agreement by August 18.
Iran said it is not currently engaged in talks with the United States, a development Reuters said comes amid heightened bilateral tensions, military confrontation and mediation efforts involving Qatar and Oman. The statement points to a pause in diplomacy despite recent indirect contacts and centers attention on longstanding flashpoints including Iran’s nuclear program and security in the Strait of Hormuz. The report’s market framing suggests traders took the news as a setback for a near-term breakthrough, with pricing implying sharply reduced confidence in a final nuclear deal by short-term deadlines and showing just 2.3% YES odds for an agreement by August 18. Markets are now likely to watch for any shift in official messaging, including comments from U.S. President Donald Trump, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Oman’s government or signs that indirect talks have resumed. The source also said the risk of military escalation or additional U.S. sanctions could further affect market sentiment and pricing.