U.S. President Donald Trump stated Monday that Iran is taking part in indirect negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, revealing Tehran’s role in high-stakes regional diplomacy.

Iran Quietly Enters Ceasefire-for-Hostages Talks

Speaking at the White House, Trump said, “Gaza right now is in the midst of a massive negotiation between us and Hamas and Israel, and Iran actually is involved.” He offered no further details, and the White House declined to elaborate. Iran’s mission to the UN also did not respond to requests for comment.

The U.S.-backed proposal includes a 60-day ceasefire under which 28 Israeli hostages—both living and deceased—would be released in the first week, in return for 1,236 Palestinian prisoners and the remains of 180 Palestinians.

Parallel Nuclear Dialogue with Tehran

Trump’s comments came as the U.S. and Iran also prepare for a new round of indirect nuclear talks. Iranian officials recently confirmed they would submit a counter-proposal to the latest U.S. plan regarding enrichment caps and sanctions relief.

Analysts suggest Iran may be using its influence over Hamas to strengthen its position in both negotiations.

Hamas Yet to Accept U.S. Terms

Israel has agreed to the ceasefire framework, but Hamas has so far rejected the U.S. offer, reportedly objecting to the structure and sequencing of prisoner releases and ceasefire stages.

Trump has made hostage repatriation a public priority, but his administration faces growing international scrutiny over Gaza’s humanitarian crisis and U.S. arms transfers to Israel.