Senior US envoys have arrived in Doha for discussions with Qatari mediators, but talks will not involve direct meetings with Iranian officials, Qatar’s foreign ministry confirmed.
The delegation, which reportedly includes Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, was dispatched following conflicting statements about potential negotiations. While US officials indicated technical discussions would continue, Iran’s lead negotiator, Kazem Gharibabadi, denied plans for immediate technical talks.
Qatar’s ministry spokesman clarified the mission’s scope. “They are not here for direct negotiations with the Iranians or related meetings,” he stated, adding that no direct meetings are scheduled in the coming days. Discussions will instead focus on broader regional issues, including Lebanon and the nuclear file.
Technical tracks regarding nuclear policy, economic performance, and regional security remain ongoing at a lower level, with the potential for future elevation. The release of $6 billion in frozen Iranian assets held in Qatar remains contingent on progress in talks that have not yet materialized.