Islamabad: Iran has 'not conveyed any message' regarding the reported 'closure' of indirect talks with the US, a senior Pakistani government official told Anadolu Tuesday. This statement comes amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions between Iran and the United States, following recent claims by prominent US media outlets.

According to Anadolu Agency, the New York Times reported that Iran had ceased its engagement in discussions aimed at averting war with the United States, a development allegedly triggered by US President Donald Trump's provocative threat to obliterate 'whole civilization.' Similarly, the Wall Street Journal noted that Iran has 'cut off direct communications with the US' in response to Trump's menacing rhetoric, although negotiations with cease-fire mediators are reportedly ongoing.

President Trump issued a stark warning, suggesting that "a whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again." This statement has fueled widespread speculation and concern, as the 8 pm Eastern Time deadline he set for Iran looms ominously.

Further complicating the situation, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar attributed blame to Israel for undermining Islamabad's efforts to mediate ceasefire discussions between the US and Iran. Dar accused Israel of launching an attack on Tehran at a critical juncture when both parties were prepared to engage in dialogue. He expressed his disappointment, stating, "We were very optimistic (about talks) before (Monday) night," and highlighted that Iran and the US had agreed to Pakistan's proposal to facilitate talks in Islamabad.