- Doha continues diplomatic efforts to bridge gaps over the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions and Iran’s nuclear programme amid concerns over a possible return to military action
WASHINGTON: Efforts by Qatari mediators to broker a diplomatic breakthrough between the United States and Iran have made little progress, with the two sides remaining far apart on key issues, according to sources cited by Axios.
The latest diplomatic efforts have focused on finding common ground over the Strait of Hormuz, the US naval blockade and Iran’s nuclear programme. Qatari mediators have been conducting shuttle diplomacy between the two sides in an effort to narrow their differences.
According to Axios, Qatari officials have discussed compromise proposals that would ease restrictions on Iran in return for concessions related to its nuclear activities. However, the discussions have so far failed to produce a significant breakthrough.
The talks have also involved senior US officials, including Vice President JD Vance, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has represented Tehran in the indirect negotiations. Sources said the positions of Washington and Tehran remain difficult to reconcile.
Qatar is expected to continue its mediation efforts despite the lack of progress. The diplomatic stalemate has raised concerns about the possibility of renewed military action if negotiations fail. Axios reported that some US officials believe President Donald Trump could consider resuming major combat operations after the November congressional midterm elections.
The latest developments come as both sides continue to publicly maintain sharply different positions. Iran has sought the lifting of the US naval blockade and other economic restrictions, while the Trump administration has continued to demand concrete limits on Iran’s nuclear programme.
Qatari mediation therefore remains a key diplomatic channel, although no agreement has yet emerged from the latest round of indirect negotiations.
BY: The Times Union
