The United States and Iran are preparing for another round of indirect talks on Monday, with Qatar intensifying diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and bridge differences between Washington and Tehran.
The latest diplomatic push comes as the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the confrontation, with Iran linking any move to reopen the strategic waterway to specific conditions and Washington rejecting Tehran’s current proposal.
Qatari mediators are expected to hold separate meetings with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US special envoy Steve Witkoff as part of efforts to establish whether a broader diplomatic framework can be reached.
Qatar attempts to bridge the gap
The talks are being conducted indirectly, with Qatar acting as an intermediary between the two governments.
Diplomatic efforts have intensified following discussions over an Iranian proposal concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions and a possible cessation of hostilities.
However, substantial differences remain.
US President Donald Trump has said Iran wants a deal but has rejected the proposal put forward by Tehran. Trump has also maintained that Washington wants the Strait of Hormuz reopened and has emphasised the US military presence in the region.
Iran, meanwhile, has insisted that its position is clear.
Araghchi has said Tehran’s conditions must be addressed before any move towards reopening the waterway, while continuing to describe diplomacy as the route towards resolving the confrontation.
Hormuz becomes central to negotiations
The Strait of Hormuz has emerged as one of the most sensitive issues in the crisis.
Iran has warned vessels against using what it describes as illegal routes through the waterway, with an Iranian authority responsible for managing maritime traffic warning that violations could expose ships, operators, captains and crews to financial and security risks.
Any prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could have consequences well beyond the region because of the waterway’s importance to international energy and shipping markets.
Military warnings continue
The diplomatic activity is taking place against a backdrop of continuing military tensions.
Iranian military officials have warned that Washington could launch another attack and said Tehran remains prepared for a possible confrontation.
At the same time, Iranian officials continue to publicly stress that diplomacy remains an option.
The conflicting signals renewed diplomatic contacts alongside military warnings have left the outcome of the latest talks uncertain.
