Mark Kimmitt, a retired US general and former assistant secretary of state for political and military affairs, tells Al Jazeera that US–Iran diplomacy is still alive in quiet back‑channel contacts despite “horrible” public messaging, warning that a single miscalculation in the Strait of Hormuz could rapidly intensify the conflict even as both sides try to “fight their way to the negotiating table.” Subscribe to our channel: Follow us on X: Find us on Facebook: Check our website: Check out our Instagram page: Download AJE Mobile App: