Mediator Qatar says efforts 'ongoing' for Iran-US diplomatic solution
A Qatar foreign ministry spokesman said that negotiations were focused on "a short-term resolution that would help us reignite the talks and go back to the mediation efforts in its totality".
DUBAI: A senior US official disclosed on Tuesday (Aug 4) that a deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz might be reached today or tomorrow, sparking a drop in oil prices as traders anticipated enhanced maritime traffic through the crucial waterway. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated on CNBC there is a possibility of a deal in the coming hours, echoing President Donald Trump's optimism.
The White House reported that President Trump maintained his hopeful and confrontational stance, warning Iran that it had a final opportunity before military action. Despite a lull and an initial pact in recent months, diplomatic attempts have not succeeded in resolving the conflict that escalated on Feb 28 with US and Israeli strikes against Iran.
The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial artery for global oil and gas supplies, has reignited hostilities. Iran seeks control over the strait and the imposition of tolls, a demand rejected by the US. President Trump has repeatedly threatened Iran with severe repercussions, only to back off and hint at a potential deal. However, Iran's foreign ministry denied any negotiations with Washington.
The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed ongoing talks between Oman and Iran on boosting commercial traffic through Hormuz. Oil prices plummeted following renewed hopes of reopening the strait, with Brent North Sea Crude falling over six percent to under $79.00 per barrel. Qatar, mediating the negotiations, said efforts to de-escalate tensions were underway, but no direct Iran-US discussions were planned.
Tehran and Washington remain embroiled in a war since Feb 28, with Iran continuing to target US and allied entities in the region and imposing an informal blockade at the strait.
Written by urgent.news from Channel News Asia's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
