(CNN) -- A US official revealed that the United States and Iran are continuing technical negotiations on nuclear issues in pursuit of a diplomatic solution, even as President Donald Trump launches strikes against Tehran this week.

The official said Thursday: 'The United States remains committed to finding a solution, and the technical talks are ongoing. Iran must never be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon.'

The official added that the memorandum of understanding is 'performance-based,' and that Iran's actions—including not fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz and launching attacks on ships coinciding with the NATO summit—'constitute a failed performance and an unacceptable level.'

He stated: 'Iran's attacks on these innocent ships are acts of terrorism.'