Qatar: US confirms continuation of negotiations with Iran under MoU
The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Tuesday that the US will continue negotiations with Iran after Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed met with US Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The negotiations will be continued based on the framework of a bilateral memorandum of understanding (MoU), as an effort to enhance security and stability in the Middle East. Through a post by the Ministry on X, Sheikh Mohammed stressed that Qatar will continue its mediation and support all lines of discussion stemming from the MoU, in order to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable solution to enhance regional security, protect the interests of its people, and support international peace and security. Meanwhile, the two US envoys expressed America’s appreciation for the role of the State of Qatar and its partner, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, in facilitating the talks, emphasising the United States’ commitment to continuing the negotiation process and supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at reaching a comprehensive agreement. On 18 June, Iran and the United States signed a memorandum governing the cessation of the military conflict that began on 28 February. The document also sets a deadline for the US to lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports and for Iran to restore shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.