Qatar Proposes Solution; Iran and the U.S. Remain at Odds

Qatari mediators have reportedly presented a new draft agreement to Iran aimed at ending the conflict with the United States and Israel. The proposal outlines a seven-day phased process, incorporating confidence-building measures from both sides.

Officials familiar with the negotiation process stated that the proposal was delivered on Sunday and is currently under consideration by Tehran. A response from Iran is expected by the end of this week, with several nations reportedly prepared to act as guarantors for the agreement.

However, a senior Iranian official involved in the talks remarked that Qatar merely presented a set of unacceptable ideas rather than a formal offer. Tehran further emphasized that its policy regarding its nuclear program remains unchanged.

Washington insists that Iran’s nuclear program be included in the discussions from the outset. Conversely, Iran demands an end to the U.S. blockade of its ports and the lifting of sanctions on its oil exports as a prerequisite for any talks.

These diplomatic efforts come as the conflict enters its eighth month, disrupting global shipping lanes and energy supplies. Qatar and Pakistan are leading the mediation, with officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan also meeting with Iranian representatives in Tehran to push for de-escalation.

Risks to energy supplies have intensified following attacks on Saudi Arabia by the Iran-aligned Houthi group. An assault on Ras Tanura—Saudi Arabia’s largest oil refinery—pushed oil prices up by more than 1%, fueling concerns over potential supply disruptions.

Uncertainty remains high, as the threat of further attacks persists. Former President Trump has again alluded to the possibility of strikes against Iran, while Iranian security officials have reportedly prepared contingency plans to target undersea cables in the Gulf region should the U.S. or Israel launch new attacks. Given these circumstances, the progress of Qatar’s diplomatic initiative has become a critical factor for stability in the Middle East and the global energy market.

Source: Newsmaker.id