Iran and Qatar hold Hormuz talks as US blockade disrupts Iran's oil imports

Iran's foreign minister met Qatar's top diplomat in Tehran on Thursday to discuss the Strait of Hormuz, as a US naval blockade disrupts Iran's oil imports and worsens a domestic fuel shortage. Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, with talks focusing on de-escalation and freedom of navigation in the strait. The visit follows separate meetings with Oman's diplomat and Pakistani officials, amid US threats of wider secondary sanctions against Iran's business partners. Iran has controlled the strait since war with the US began in February, requiring vessel permits and imposing fees. Vice President Mohammad Jafar Ghaempanah said the blockade prevents gasoline imports, causing queues at stations. Tehran insists the strait won't reopen unless Washington lifts its blockade and sanctions.