U.S. and Iranian envoys on Wednesday launched indirect technical talks in Doha with mediation by Qatar and Pakistan. According to AFP and Reuters, the discussions are being held under the framework of a bilateral memorandum of understanding and build on progress made during the Lucerne meeting in Switzerland. Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reported that President Donald Trump is still prioritizing diplomacy over military escalation against Iran, despite reviewing military options. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said no direct or high-level meeting between the United States and Iran is scheduled in Doha, stressing that the visit by U.S. envoys is limited to consultations with mediators. Iranian sources said Tehran may discuss the release of its frozen assets but insists it will not enter direct or new negotiations with Washington until the commitments outlined in the memorandum of understanding are implemented.
