Iran Reviews Qatari Proposals on Nuclear Program as U.S. Talks Hinge on Sanctions

Iran is reviewing Qatari proposals to address differences with the U.S. over its nuclear program, raising hopes for indirect talks, according to two Middle East officials. The development follows President Trump's Republican Party losing both chambers of Congress in Tuesday's midterm elections. Iran remains unwilling to negotiate until the U.S. meets core conditions, including ending its port blockade, lifting sanctions, unfreezing assets, and halting regional hostilities. A proposed bridge deal would lift the blockade and release frozen funds in exchange for IAEA access and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Diplomatic calls have intensified among Gulf and regional leaders to ease tensions, with Trump confirming ongoing talks with Iran. Iran holds 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% purity, near weapons-grade levels, while maintaining its program is peaceful.