Iranian and Qatari officials held their third day of talks in Doha to seek a resolution to the ongoing US-Iran conflict. The discussions, which began on Saturday, aim to push for a diplomatic solution to the escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran will decide whether to pursue direct or indirect negotiations with the US only after Washington agrees to its conditions.
The talks took place amid growing concerns that the conflict could escalate further, particularly following the US midterm elections. Iranian negotiators left Doha on Sunday, but their departure was not due to any breakdown in discussions, according to a Qatari official briefed on the talks. The mediation efforts, led by Qatar, have been ongoing as both sides seek to avoid a new round of confrontation.
The US has urged Iran to make a deal, with President Joe Biden warning Tehran to find a diplomatic resolution. Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported that two tankers had hit mines and caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears of further disruptions. Despite these developments, oil prices fell over 1% as hopes for diplomatic progress grew.
Qatar’s role as a mediator has been critical in the efforts to de-escalate the situation. The Gulf state has facilitated multiple rounds of talks between the US and Iran, aiming to prevent a potential military clash. The United Arab Emirates has also expressed hope that a diplomatic breakthrough is possible, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution.
The situation remains tense, with both sides maintaining a firm stance. While Iran has not ruled out military options, it has also shown willingness to engage in diplomacy. The outcome of these talks will be crucial in determining whether the current standoff can be resolved through negotiation or if tensions will continue to rise.
