Iran and Qatar Discuss Hormuz Strait Amid US Fuel Blockade

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met Thursday with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Tehran, as a US naval blockade tightens around Iran's fuel imports amid domestic shortages. The talks focused on de-escalation efforts and regional security, including discussions on a proposed framework for a temporary joint maritime corridor through the Strait of Hormuz, according to a Qatari Foreign Ministry statement. The visit follows recent diplomatic trips by Omani and Pakistani officials to Tehran. Iran has effectively closed the strait since late February, while Washington has imposed new sanctions targeting countries trading with Iran. Iranian officials confirmed the blockade prevents fuel imports, with domestic gasoline production insufficient to meet demand.