US President Donald Trump has said that Iran requested the continuation of negotiations with Washington and that the United States agreed to the request, while stressing that the ceasefire between the two sides is no longer in effect. Writing on his social media platform on Friday, Trump said: “The Islamic Republic of Iran asked us to continue the negotiations. We agreed, but the United States made it absolutely clear that the ceasefire is over.” Trump’s remarks come as three commercial oil tankers from Qatar and Saudi Arabia were attacked earlier this week. Following the incidents, the United States launched strikes on targets inside Iran, while Iran responded on Thursday by attacking US military bases in neighbouring Gulf countries. Meanwhile, Reuters, citing a source familiar with the matter, reported that Qatari officials met with Iranian counterparts on Friday in an effort to help reduce tensions. According to the report, ensuring the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz was among the key issues discussed during the negotiations. The recent escalation has led to a decline in tanker traffic through the strategic waterway, raising concerns over the security of global oil shipments and the stability of international energy markets. Iran’s Tasnim News Agency also reported that a Qatari delegation had travelled to Tehran. Analysts say the visit is part of Doha’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to mediate between Tehran and Washington.
