Qatari delegation arrives in Tehran as efforts intensify to finalise US-Iran peace deal
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A Qatari delegation arrived in Tehran on Sunday as diplomatic efforts intensified to finalise a proposed peace agreement between the United States and Iran, according to reports.
The development comes amid indications from the United States and mediator Pakistan that a breakthrough in the negotiations could be imminent. However, Iran has tempered expectations of an immediate agreement, saying a final decision is still under consideration.
According to Reuters, Qatari negotiators travelled to Tehran on Sunday morning to help resolve outstanding issues in the proposed deal. Qatar reportedly re-engaged in the talks following discussions with US President Donald Trump, although Pakistan has been serving as the primary mediator.
The proposed agreement is expected to include a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending hostilities, addressing Iran's nuclear programme, and easing US restrictions on Iranian ports.
Al Arabiya reported that US and Iranian representatives are expected to participate in a virtual meeting to discuss and potentially sign the agreement, with Pakistan and Qatar attending as mediators.
The report said Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and US Vice President JD Vance are expected to take part in the meeting.
According to the report, the agreement could pave the way for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the easing of restrictions on Iranian ports, and the launch of further negotiations on nuclear issues.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said the parties had agreed that ending the conflict and addressing issues related to Lebanon would take priority over nuclear-related matters at this stage.
Baghaei also said that the release of Iran's blocked funds would be an integral part of any agreement, according to Iran International.
The diplomatic push comes as some hardline groups within Iran have criticised the ongoing talks and staged protests against Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi over the proposed terms of the agreement.
While negotiations appear to be advancing, Tehran has not confirmed a timeline for signing any final deal.