Limited progress reported in Qatar-mediated US-Iran talks

NEW YORK: Qatar-mediated indirect talks between the United States and Iran have made limited progress, but both sides remain committed to their core demands and continue to disagree on key issues.
People familiar with the negotiations said the deadlock had increased fears that the conflict could once again escalate into large-scale military action. US officials reportedly believe President Donald Trump could order a resumption of military operations against Iran after the November midterm elections.
Qatari mediator Ali al-Thawadi held several hours of talks in New York with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and his delegation. The discussions included a two-page Qatari compromise proposal aimed at bridging Iran’s demand for an end to the US naval blockade and Washington’s call for concessions on Tehran’s nuclear programme.
Al-Thawadi later travelled to Washington, where he met US officials and Trump’s envoy Jared Kushner. However, sources said the talks produced no significant breakthrough, with both sides viewing the other’s demands as unacceptable.
Iranian officials have indicated that Tehran would consider concessions on nuclear issues only if Washington agreed to return to the terms of a memorandum of understanding reached in June. President Trump, meanwhile, has denied reports that he offered Iran sanctions relief or other concessions.
Regional mediators, including Pakistan and Egypt, are also urging the sides to compromise. Qatar, however, is reportedly becoming increasingly frustrated with the positions of both Washington and Tehran.