(CNN)--Diplomatic moves are underway behind the scenes to reduce tensions with Iran, according to a US official who spoke to CNN, after an exchange of fire in recent days undermined the ceasefire between Tehran and Washington.

Meanwhile, both Pakistan and Qatar are working to bring the two countries back to the negotiating table, according to regional sources who spoke to CNN.

Here are the key developments as of Friday morning:

US strategy: The US official said Washington is pursuing an approach of carrying out military strikes and then deliberately pausing to avoid escalation and allow room for diplomatic efforts. He added that the United States maintains a list of targets that it uses as leverage, while crews on the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln were preparing earlier Thursday for possible strikes.

Iran reports attacks: Iranian state media reported that multiple strikes targeted military sites in two cities Thursday evening. But a US official told CNN that the US military is not currently carrying out any strikes, while Israeli officials confirmed they are 'not aware of any Israeli involvement in strikes inside Iran at this time.'

Nuclear talks continue: The US official said that the United States and Iran continue to hold technical negotiations on the nuclear file, as part of efforts to reach a diplomatic solution.