Iranian negotiators have left talks with Qatari mediators aimed at ending the war with the United States, and a draft proposal is being circulated with a follow-up meeting possible, an official briefed on the talks told Reuters on Monday. The negotiators departed on Sunday, though not because of difficulties in the negotiations, the official said.
Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson said the basis of the talks is a seven-step plan Iran drew up in September to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the US naval blockade on Iran, with Tehran now suggesting that proposal could be implemented on a faster timeline under a deal. Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera quoted Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as saying that under a deal the Strait could be opened within a two-day timeline rather than within the seven days originally envisaged.
Iran has said no final agreement can be initiated, nor can the Strait be reopened or secured, unless the US naval blockade is brought to an end and Iran’s demands are respected. The talks come amid concerns that the conflict could escalate again after the US midterm elections on 3 November, with President Donald Trump saying the US will not launch new attacks on Iran before the vote but not ruling out further military action afterwards.
Sources: Reuters, Al Jazeera. Written in our own words for information only.