Oman and Qatar discuss US-Iran talks and separate Hormuz negotiations

Muscat talks advance diplomacy

Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman met in Muscat with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani to review progress in U.S.-Iran negotiations and broader efforts to ease regional tensions. The leaders focused on mediation efforts led by Pakistan and Qatar aimed at reaching a comprehensive settlement and strengthening regional stability; Sultan Haitham emphasized advancing diplomatic initiatives while the Qatari minister praised Oman's role in facilitating dialogue.

Reuters cited a diplomatic source saying separate discussions in Muscat aim to launch talks involving Iran, Iraq and Gulf states on the future operation of the Strait of Hormuz, a process described as distinct from the U.S.-Iran technical talks. Gulf states are reportedly pushing to remove transit fees while Iran may propose environmental, maritime and security-related charges; Pakistan's foreign ministry said technical U.S.-Iran talks will resume next week after a constructive first round in Lucerne that Islamabad and Doha said could pave the way to a final agreement, as reported by SANA