U.S. and Iran agree to rare face-to-face talks as warships arrive in region

As American warships move into the region, the White House and Iran have agreed to hold rare, face-to-face talks aimed at avoiding a wider conflict, according to diplomatic sources.

(NBC)- As American warships move into the region, the White House and Iran have agreed to hold rare, face-to-face talks aimed at avoiding a wider conflict, according to diplomatic sources.

Officials say Iran appears to be searching for a path to de-escalation as it confronts the threat of possible U.S. and Israeli military action, alongside mounting domestic unrest. The country has been rocked by mass demonstrations, followed by a government crackdown and a near-total internet blackout, moves analysts say are intended to project control and strength.

NBC News reports that Iranian authorities have also escalated their rhetoric. Propaganda posters displayed across Tehran warn that if another war breaks out, Israel and the United States would “receive coffins,” underscoring the highly charged atmosphere surrounding the standoff.

Despite the public messaging, two Iranian officials told NBC News they hope the situation does not reach that point. They said Iran wants a deal and expressed optimism about reaching an agreement if negotiations are limited to preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

Diplomatic sources say the talks are expected to involve Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s envoy, and are scheduled to take place Friday in Istanbul.

The planned meeting would mark a rare direct engagement between Washington and Tehran at a moment when tensions remain high but both sides appear eager to avoid open conflict.