By Zainab Bakare
Iran and the United States have concluded another round of indirect negotiations in Doha without a major breakthrough, though both sides described the discussions as constructive.
The two-day talks focused on implementing provisions of an interim agreement reached earlier, particularly maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and the unfreezing of Iranian funds. Iran’s nuclear programme at the heart of long-running tensions was not directly discussed during the latest round.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said the talks made “positive progress” and confirmed negotiations would resume after the July 9 funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism, saying efforts to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities were “moving along well,” while Vice President JD Vance said nuclear issues would be addressed in later stages of the negotiations.
The talks were conducted indirectly through Qatari and Pakistani mediators, with senior delegations meeting separately. No indication was given that key disagreements had been resolved.
The Strait of Hormuz remained a central focus. The strategic waterway, which carries about one-fifth of global oil and gas trade, continues to face uncertainty despite a partial return of shipping. Iran has also signalled plans to tighten its control over the route, including the possible introduction of shipping tolls from mid-August.
Meanwhile, oil prices fell to a four-month low after signs of progress in the talks eased concerns over a wider regional conflict, although analysts say shipping through Hormuz remains unstable amid persistent security risks.
