Washington is reportedly considering Iranian official Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf as a potential negotiator in post-conflict talks, according to sources cited by the U.S. Administration. The potential engagement with Ghalibaf comes as tensions remain high in the region and the possibility of a broader diplomatic resolution is explored.
On Monday, June 29, 2025, former President Trump stated that matters were “going very well” regarding Iran, following his announcement of talks with the country and a postponement of potential strikes against its energy facilities.
Although Iran has denied engaging in negotiations with the United States, Trump’s comments were interpreted as a sign that a resolution to the conflict could be near.
The Iranian denial came from Ghalibaf himself, while Iran’s Foreign Ministry announced it had received “messages from friendly countries” regarding a U.S. Request for talks.
However, according to the administration, the White House is not yet prepared to commit to a specific individual to lead Iran, hoping instead to test several candidates “who are willing to strike a deal.”
One U.S. Administration official said Ghalibaf is a “strong option,” adding that he is “among the frontrunners, but the administration should not rush and test them.”
Ghalibaf is playing an increasingly pivotal role amid U.S. And Israeli strikes on Iran, making him a key figure at a critical moment. Reports have also identified him as a potential negotiator for Iran with U.S. Vice President Ji D. Vance and Washington’s envoys.
An Israeli official and a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Monday that Ghalibaf is negotiating on behalf of Iran with the United States as the conflict escalates, signaling his growing role.
As other prominent figures recede from the scene, Ghalibaf – a former commander in the Revolutionary Guard, former mayor of Tehran, former national police chief and past presidential candidate – has become a key link between Iran’s political, security, and religious elites.
Ghalibaf, long seen as close to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei – who was killed at the start of the war – and trusted by his son Mojtaba, who succeeded him, has been among the most vocal critics of Israel and the United States, vowing revenge for their attacks.
In a message directed at Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following Khamenei’s death, Ghalibaf threatened to deliver “devastating strikes to the point that you will beg.”
