An official familiar with the talks confirmed Monday that the Iranian delegation left Doha on Sunday but emphasized that the departure was not linked to disagreements or a breakdown in negotiations.
Although details of the proposed agreement remain undisclosed, the official indicated that a draft is being circulated among the parties involved, raising hopes that another round of discussions could take place.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, said the negotiations are centered on a seven-step peace proposal submitted by Tehran in September. The plan seeks to reopen the strategically important Strait of Hormuz while securing an end to the United States naval blockade of Iran.
Baghaei disclosed that Tehran is now willing to accelerate the implementation of the proposal if both sides reach an acceptable agreement.
He explained that Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi had traveled to Doha to facilitate indirect communications between Tehran and Washington through Qatari mediators.
However, the Iranian government maintained that any agreement must address its principal demands, particularly the removal of the American naval blockade.
According to Baghaei, Iran will not agree to reopen or guarantee the security of the Strait of Hormuz unless Washington ends the blockade and addresses what Tehran describes as its legitimate national interests and security concerns.
The Iranian position underscores the significant differences that remain between the two countries despite renewed diplomatic engagement.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has suggested that the strategically vital waterway could reopen within just two days of a successful agreement, rather than the seven days outlined in Tehran’s original proposal.
Araqchi’s remarks, reported Saturday by Qatar-based Al Jazeera, indicate a potential willingness by Iran to accelerate measures aimed at restoring maritime access.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical international shipping corridor, particularly for global energy supplies, making its reopening a major priority in efforts to ease the economic consequences of the conflict.
However, US President Donald Trump previously rejected Iran’s initial proposal, leaving uncertainty over whether the revised framework will be acceptable to Washington.
The latest diplomatic developments come amid heightened concerns that military hostilities could intensify after the United States midterm elections scheduled for Tuesday, November 3.
Trump has indicated that American forces will not launch fresh attacks against Iran before the elections and has described ongoing negotiations with Tehran as productive.
Nevertheless, the US president has not ruled out further military action if diplomatic efforts fail to produce an acceptable agreement.
Responding to questions about the potential impact of the American elections on negotiations, Baghaei expressed skepticism that the outcome would fundamentally change Washington’s approach toward Iran.
Despite the continued tensions, Qatar’s involvement as an intermediary has provided both governments with an avenue for diplomatic engagement without requiring direct negotiations.
The possibility of another meeting and the circulation of a draft agreement suggest that diplomatic efforts remain active, even as major disagreements persist over the naval blockade, maritime security and the conditions necessary to end the conflict.
With the threat of renewed military confrontation still looming, the coming days could prove decisive in determining whether Washington and Tehran can narrow their differences and move toward a negotiated settlement.
