A draft agreement mediated by Qatar aims to pave the way for a broader deal between the United States and Iran, Axios reported, citing people close to the matter. The draft has not yet been accepted by either party, and basic differences reportedly remain unresolved.
A two-day sequence
Under the proposed sequence, the United States would lift its naval blockade of Iran on the first day and release part of Iran’s frozen assets. Iran, in turn, would formally invite International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors to nuclear sites that were targeted in US and Israeli strikes.
On the second day, the Strait of Hormuz would reopen to maritime traffic. US-Iran nuclear negotiations would then begin, covering, among other matters, the future of Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Qatari mediators are said to continue talks with both Iranian officials and the White House.
Conditions and warnings
Muhsin Rızai, Secretary General of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said Iran had presented seven conditions to the United States for a diplomatic solution. He said the Strait of Hormuz would not open and negotiations would not begin unless those conditions were met.
Iran’s demands reportedly include the lifting of US sanctions, the release of frozen assets, an end to the naval blockade and the payment of war reparations. US President Donald Trump said he preferred not to cause further destruction in Iran but had not ruled out new strikes, adding he would decide soon whether to resume military operations against the country.
Tensions between Washington and Tehran are described as continuing to rise even as the mediated contacts proceed.
Related: Iran says US contacts continue after Qatar talks stall · Iran sets seven conditions for ending war, via Qatar mediators
Source: Axios
