Diplomatic visits to Iran signal de-escalation as Gulf states Qatar, Oman, and Pakistan step in

Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani visited Tehran Thursday to discuss de-escalating tensions and reviving US-Iran negotiations, amid a flurry of diplomatic visits from regional mediators. Pakistan's army chief met Iranian officials Monday, while Oman's foreign minister discussed the Strait of Hormuz Tuesday, agreeing on a temporary shipping route. The waterway has been mostly closed since March, disrupting global energy markets. Both sides continue hardline posturing, with Trump saying he is "not in a hurry" for talks and Iran condemning new US sanctions. However, Washington is returning diplomatic staff to Middle East posts, signaling confidence against military escalation.