Iran leaves Doha talks as draft deal circulates that could reopen Hormuz within two days
An official said the departure was not a breakdown, and a follow-up meeting is possible. Iran says the blockade must end before any final agreement.
Iranian negotiators have left talks in Doha with Qatari mediators aimed at ending the war with the United States, but a draft proposal is now being circulated and a follow-up meeting is possible, an official briefed on the talks told Reuters.
The official said the delegation's departure was not because of difficulties in the negotiations.
Hormuz in two days?
Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, said the discussions are based on a seven-step plan Tehran drew up in September to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the US naval blockade of Iran.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reportedly said that under a deal, the strait could reopen within two days, rather than the seven days first envisaged. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a large share of the world's oil normally passes, has been effectively shut since the war began in February.
Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi was in Doha to pass messages between Tehran and Washington through Qatari intermediaries, and Qatari mediators later returned to Tehran for further talks, according to reports.
Iran's condition
Baghaei said no final agreement can be reached, and the strait cannot reopen, until the US naval blockade ends and Iran's requirements are met.
Washington's position
President Donald Trump has said the conflict will end soon, through either a deal or another offensive. He has said the United States will not launch new attacks before Tuesday's midterm elections and that talks have been productive, but he has not ruled out further military action. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly pressed for strikes immediately after the vote.
Why it matters
The war has pushed Brent crude to its highest levels since April, raising fuel and food costs worldwide. A deal that reopens Hormuz would ease prices quickly; renewed fighting after the US elections could push them higher. The days immediately after Tuesday's vote may decide which way it goes.
Sources and references
- 1.Iranians have left Doha talks, draft proposal for US deal being circulated, official says — Reuters via Al-Monitor
- 2.Iranian negotiators left Doha talks, draft proposal is being circulated — Al Arabiya
- 3.Qatari mediators back in Tehran for talks on deal with US — Times of Israel
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