Mediating nation Qatar said on Tuesday that efforts for a diplomatic solution between the United States and Iran remain ongoing, though no direct talks between the two sides are currently planned. Foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari made the announcement at a regular briefing. Mediators are pressing for a resumption of stalled negotiations.
Are the US and Iran holding direct talks?
No direct talks between the United States and Iran are currently scheduled, Qatar's foreign ministry said. Efforts instead continue through mediators, with Doha coordinating closely with Pakistan and Oman. Al Ansari said negotiations are focused on a short-term resolution that could help reignite dialogue and restore the broader mediation process between Washington and Tehran.
What did Qatar's foreign ministry say about the talks?
"We can confirm that the efforts are still ongoing with all parties," Al Ansari told reporters. He said the current focus is on lowering escalation, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and reopening the door for diplomacy between the parties. Al Ansari added that mediators are hopeful a resumption of talks could soon lead to a major deal.
Why did Trump say Iran has a 'last chance'?
US President Donald Trump said on Monday he had agreed to continue pursuing talks with Iran at the request of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other countries. He said Tehran had a "last chance" in the negotiations. Trump said the talks are focused on the Strait of Hormuz, and that the vital waterway could open "literally by tomorrow."
Who else is mediating between Iran and the US?
Iran's foreign ministry denied on Monday that negotiations with Washington were taking place. Qatar, a key intermediary in talks between Iran and the United States, had previously refused to enter negotiations under Iranian fire. Tehran launched an unprecedented aerial bombardment against Gulf states in retaliation for the US-Israeli strikes that began at the end of February.
The Gulf emirate has since played a more active role in negotiations, alongside mediator Pakistan and traditional mediator Oman. "Qatar, Pakistan and now Oman are all working together," Al Ansari said. He added that Doha is coordinating closely with Oman to facilitate talks between both sides, exchanging ideas and drafts.
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