Iran exits Doha talks, draft deal circulates
Negotiators departed Qatar on Sunday while a proposal to end the US naval blockade and reopen the Strait of Hormuz moves through diplomatic channels.
By Adrian Kovalenko ·
Iranian negotiators left Doha on Sunday, concluding a round of talks with Qatari mediators designed to end the war with the United States. An official briefed on the proceedings confirmed that a draft proposal is now being circulated, with a follow-up meeting possible.
The official stated the departure was not caused by difficulties in the negotiations. No specific details regarding the contents of the draft proposal were released immediately after the meeting concluded.
Iran’s foreign ministry outlined the core of its position. Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the talks rely on a seven-step plan Tehran drafted in September. That plan aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and lift the US naval blockade. Baghaei noted that Tehran now suggests this framework could be executed on a faster timeline if a deal is reached.
Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi traveled to Doha to handle the exchange of messages between Washington and Tehran through Qatari intermediaries. Baghaei emphasized that Iran’s conditions were stated clearly during the discussions. “Our demands have been articulated very clearly and transparently. These demands are reasonable and logical: no final agreement can be initiated, nor can the Strait of Hormuz be reopened or secured, unless the US naval blockade is brought to an end, Iran’s demands are respected, and Iran’s legitimate requirements are addressed,” Baghaei said.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera on Saturday that the strait could open within two days under a deal. This is a reduction from the seven-day window in the original proposal. US President Donald Trump had previously rejected Iran’s initial offer.
This diplomatic activity occurs while both sides watch the upcoming US midterm elections scheduled for Tuesday. Baghaei said Tehran does not expect the vote to create a new US administration. President Trump stated the United States would not launch new attacks on Iran before the election. He described the talks as productive but did not rule out further military action.
The current conflict has raised concerns about potential escalation following the November vote. The US naval blockade remains in place as the two sides weigh the draft proposal being circulated in Doha.
Source: KELO
