Iranian Negotiators Leave Doha Talks as US Draft Proposal Circulates

Iranian negotiators have left Doha talks with Qatari mediators aimed at ending the war with the United States, with a draft US proposal circulating and a follow-up meeting possible, an official said Monday. The negotiators departed Sunday, not due to difficulties, the official said. Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson said talks are based on a seven-step plan Tehran drew up in September to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the US naval blockade, with Tehran suggesting faster implementation under a deal. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi facilitated message exchanges with Washington via Qatari intermediaries. Iran's foreign minister said the strait could open within two days under a deal, versus seven originally. The diplomacy comes amid concerns of escalation after Tuesday's US midterm elections.