Reuters: Qatar holds talks in Iran to ease Washington-Tehran tensions

Qatari negotiators have arrived in Iran for talks aimed at reducing tensions between Tehran and Washington and creating conditions for broader negotiations to continue, a source familiar with the situation told Reuters.

The discussions are being conducted in coordination with the United States and are focused on implementing the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding, as well as addressing issues that contributed to the recent escalation between the two countries.

According to the source, the talks include efforts to resolve disputes over freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy transit route.

Tensions in the Persian Gulf increased after attacks on commercial tankers attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz on the night of July 7. The United States later carried out a series of strikes on Iranian territory, while Tehran responded with attacks on U.S. military facilities in the region.

Qatar has previously played a mediating role between Washington and Tehran as regional actors seek to prevent further escalation and revive diplomatic efforts.

By Sabina Mammadli