Qatari mediators press peace deal between US and Iran
USO•Qatar said it is exchanging messages between the US and Iran in hopes of reaching a deal, while President Donald Trump denied offering Tehran sanctions relief or access to frozen funds. Iran’s proposal would trigger a seven-day countdown to reopening the Strait of Hormuz and pausing the fighting.
1. Qatar seeks common ground
Qatar said it is exchanging messages between the US and Iran and working toward a deal to limit the conflict’s repercussions. US and Iranian officials spoke separately with Qatari mediators on Monday; it was unclear whether another exchange took place Tuesday.
2. Trump rejects relief reports
Trump denied reports that he was willing to ease sanctions and release frozen Iranian funds in return for nuclear concessions, writing, “I offered them NOTHING.” He said Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon and told reporters he did not know if Tehran would give up, but expected it would.
3. Iran proposal and oil
Iran’s proposal, presented at the United Nations General Assembly, would start a seven-day countdown to reopening the Strait of Hormuz and pausing the fighting. Oil prices settled 2.5% lower Tuesday, though they remained on track for monthly gains. The US offered energy companies loans of up to 40 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and sanctioned 10 individuals and entities it said helped Iran procure weapons and components.
