Iran Signals Backchannel Talks Amid War as Leadership Shifts

Iran’s intelligence service reportedly reached out to the CIA via a foreign intermediary to discuss ending the conflict, but U.S. officials doubt any immediate willingness to negotiate. Iran’s leadership is in flux after Israeli strikes killed senior clerics, complicating any deal. Trump has suggested talks may be “too late” and appears to favor a Venezuela‑like outcome where a new leader could take power, while demands for any settlement would likely include curbing ballistic missiles and Iranian proxies. Analysts warn a durable cease-fire remains uncertain as Iran’s internal chaos and regional dynamics unfold.