From a New York Times, I'm Michael Bobaro.

This is the Daily.

Despite his threats of escalation, President Trump seems increasingly determined to end the conflict in Iran through negotiations.

His problem? Iran isn't on the same page.

Today, David Sanger on the standoff over when to turn from war to diplomacy.

The United States. from war to diplomacy.

It's Monday, March 30th.

Mr. Sanger, thank you for making time for us on a Sunday of all days. Great to be with you, Michael. What a month.

Yes, indeed. And it's been exactly pretty much a month since this war began.

And David, I want to start with what should be a simple yes or no question under ordinary circumstances, but there's open debate about it and genuine confusion.

Is the United States currently negotiating with Iran

to bring this war to an end?

Well, as you suggest, Michael,

it's a more complicated question than it sounds like.

And I would say the simple answer is that the United

States is engaging in operations right now to shape a negotiation with Iran. But I wouldn't say

the negotiations have yet started. Well, let me highlight some of the source of the confusion.

Last week, we had this very explicit claim from President Trump.

I'm going to quote him.

I am pleased to report that the United States of America and the country of Iran have had very good and productive conversations

regarding a complete and total resolution of our hostilities in the Middle East.

Okay, that's that's a explicit claim of negotiation. A few hours later, Iran's government

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