Iranian delegation concludes talks with Qatar mediators, leaves Doha — Pajhwok

KABUL (Pajhwok): Iranian negotiators have concluded talks with Qatari mediators aimed at ending the war with the United States and left Doha, while a draft proposal for an agreement with Washington is under review, Reuters reported on Monday. The delegation departed on Sunday, but its departure was not related to any difficulties in the negotiations, the report said. A source familiar with the matter said another meeting between the parties could be held, but provided no further details about the draft agreement. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed at a press conference on Monday that an Iranian delegation had visited Qatar. He said Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi had travelled to Doha to facilitate the exchange of messages with Washington through Qatari intermediaries. “Given that Qatar is facilitating the exchange of messages between Iran and the United States, Gharibabadi was also in Doha for this purpose, and discussions are continuing,” Baghaei said. Earlier, Al Jazeera, citing Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, reported that under a possible agreement, the Strait of Hormuz could be reopened within two days instead of seven. The report added that US President Donald Trump had rejected Iran’s initial proposal. The latest diplomatic efforts come amid growing concerns about a possible escalation of the conflict following Tuesday’s US midterm elections.