Doha: Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met with US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to discuss the progress in negotiations between Washington and Tehran, according to a statement by the emir's office. The talks also focused on the situation in Lebanon, with both sides emphasizing the importance of maintaining the ceasefire, as stated by the Emiri Diwan.
According to Anadolu Agency, Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani also held discussions with Witkoff and Kushner in Doha. The meeting reviewed the latest developments in the US-Iran negotiations under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and efforts to enhance regional security and stability through dialogue. The discussions underscored the importance of preserving the ceasefire in Lebanon to maintain the country's unity, sovereignty, and stability.
Recently, Beirut and Tel Aviv signed a US-sponsored framework agreement aiming to facilitate a phased Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory and reduce hostilities along the border. Sheikh Mohammed reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to mediation efforts and supporting negotiation tracks to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable solution that enhances regional security, protects the interests of the region's peoples, and supports international peace and security.
Witkoff and Kushner expressed US appreciation for Qatar's role, alongside Pakistan, in facilitating the negotiations. They reaffirmed Washington's commitment to continuing the diplomatic track toward a comprehensive agreement, as stated in the ministry statement. The White House envoys traveled to Doha following President Donald Trump's announcement that Iran had requested a meeting in the Qatari capital.
Despite the discussions, Iran denied that any direct talks with Washington are scheduled, while consultations with intermediaries continue. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated that Iranian negotiators would meet Qatari mediators in Doha to discuss the implementation of the US-Iran memorandum of understanding, including the release of frozen Iranian assets, while ruling out direct talks with Washington.
The memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, brokered by Pakistan, came into effect on June 18. It was electronically signed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and US President Trump. The agreement provides a framework for ending the conflict that began in late February and addressing outstanding issues through negotiations, including a cessation of hostilities in Lebanon, sanctions relief, the nuclear file, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and broader regional security arrangements.