Qataris hold marathon talks in Tehran in bid for U.S.-Iran deal before midterms
Qatari mediators held talks in Tehran for more than 12 hours on Friday in an effort to reach a deal to restart direct negotiations between the U.S. and Iran and avoid an outbreak of war after the midterms, according to diplomatic sources. The discussions will continue in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday. Why it matters: The U.S. is now just days away from a possible military operation that would inflict…
Qatari diplomats engaged in marathon negotiations in Tehran for over 12 hours on Friday, aiming to secure a deal for resuming direct U.S.-Iran talks before the upcoming midterms, according to diplomatic sources. These discussions are set to continue on Saturday in Doha, Qatar.
The urgency surrounding these talks stems from the looming possibility of a U.S. military operation against Iran, which could inflict significant damage and provoke retaliatory strikes on Israel and the Gulf countries. A diplomatic source confirmed regular communication between the Qatari mediators and the White House during Friday's daylong session.
Positive progress was noted, with the Qataris pushing for reciprocal steps from both the U.S. and Iran that would facilitate a return to direct talks on the Iranian nuclear program and other pressing issues.
However, the talks have been hampered by two primary demands: the Trump administration's insistence on Iran making nuclear concessions, and Iran's insistence that the U.S. first lift its naval blockade, release frozen funds, and permit it to sell oil. The Qataris are attempting to persuade Iran to permit U.N. inspectors to visit its damaged nuclear facilities as a confidence-building measure; in return, the U.S. would allegedly provide some sanctions relief.
Within Trump's inner circle, opinions on potential diplomatic outcomes diverge. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio express skepticism about reaching a nuclear agreement with the present Iranian regime, believing Trump's legacy should focus on further weakening it through additional strikes. In contrast, Vice President Pence and Trump's aides Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner advocate for resuming negotiations. Trump himself remains skeptical that Iran would ever accept a deal he deems acceptable.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, a close aide to Trump, is urging the president to allow the diplomatic initiative to progress rather than resorting to immediate military action. The influence of upcoming U.S. midterm elections, which could impact Trump's decision-making, is also noted by U.S. officials. They suggest that a significant electoral setback for Republicans could motivate Trump to consider more aggressive action, as indicated by a White House official.
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