ISLAMABAD, May 18 (Xinhua) -- Iran's response to a recent U.S. communication was received by Pakistan on Sunday and immediately conveyed to Washington through diplomatic channels, Pakistani sources familiar with the matter said on Monday.

"The United States is currently reviewing the Iranian response, while an official reaction from Washington is still awaited," the sources told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

The latest exchange is part of ongoing indirect contacts between Tehran and Washington being facilitated through Pakistan, amid efforts to ease regional tensions and explore possible diplomatic progress.

Iranian officials have repeatedly maintained that communications with the United States are taking place indirectly through mediators rather than through direct negotiations.

No further details regarding the contents of the Iranian response were immediately available. ■