PANews reported on March 22 that, according to AXIOS, a US official and a source familiar with the matter revealed that after three weeks of fighting, the Trump administration has begun preliminary discussions on the next phase and possible forms of peace talks with Iran. US President Trump stated on Friday that he is considering a “gradual end” to the war, but US officials indicated that fighting is expected to continue for another two to three weeks. Meanwhile, Trump's advisors hope to begin preparations for diplomatic mediation. Sources revealed that Trump's special envoys Kushner and Witkov are involved in discussions regarding potential diplomatic avenues. Any agreement to end the war must include reopening the Strait of Hormuz, resolving the issue of Iran's highly enriched uranium stockpile, and reaching a long-term agreement on Iran's nuclear program, ballistic missiles, and support for proxies in the region. Other sources indicated that although Egypt, Qatar, and the UK have all conveyed messages to the US and Iran, there has been no direct contact between the two countries in recent days. Egypt and Qatar have informed the US and Israel that Iran is willing to negotiate, but on very tough conditions, including a ceasefire, guarantees against future war, and reparations.