US-Iran diplomatic channels remain indirect amid ongoing implementation of the June 2026 memorandum of understanding on sanctions relief, Strait of Hormuz access, and nuclear talks following February 2026 strikes that killed Ali Khamenei and elevated Mojtaba as supreme leader. Trump publicly signaled openness to a meeting conditional on deal progress, while Mojtaba approved the framework yet stressed it did not signal acceptance of US demands and Iranian advisers explicitly ruled out personal talks. Recent statements from Mojtaba emphasize revenge and resistance, sustaining trader skepticism that direct verbal or in-person contact will occur by year-end absent major de-escalation or verified high-level commitments.