Qatari PM warns external factors could disrupt US-Iran negotiations

Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani urged caution regarding ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran, warning that external factors could still influence the outcome despite both sides’ commitment to reaching an agreement.

Speaking in an interview with Al Jazeera, Al Thani said there was a clear willingness in Washington and Tehran to pursue a diplomatic solution, but noted that developments beyond the negotiating table could complicate the process.

“We must be cautious, because despite the will, there are external circumstances that may affect the negotiations,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

The Qatari premier highlighted the role of a recently signed memorandum of understanding, saying it had helped bring an end to the war and establish the foundations for further negotiations. According to Al Thani, the memorandum was reached “after significant efforts with Qatar’s partners in Pakistan and with regional support.”

He said the primary objective of the agreement was to stop the war and create a structured framework for talks between the United States and Iran.

The memorandum establishes an “institutional framework for the negotiating process” and requires both sides to “meet regularly” in order to address unresolved issues, Al Thani said.

He described the framework presented during June 21 talks in Switzerland as “positive” and confirmed that technical-level discussions are continuing.

Earlier on June 22, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the negotiations had produced “significant progress” toward ending the war in Lebanon and easing pressure on Iran’s economy.

By Vafa Guliyeva