Qatar mediates marathon talks to revive US-Iran nuclear negotiations

Qatar held over 12 hours of talks in Tehran on Friday to restart US-Iran nuclear negotiations, aiming to prevent military conflict after the US midterm elections, with discussions continuing in Doha on Sunday. Washington is reportedly days from deciding on military action against Iran, which could trigger retaliation against Israel and Gulf nations. Qatar is pushing for reciprocal confidence-building measures, though obstacles remain: the US demands nuclear concessions first, while Iran insists on eased naval blockade, frozen funds, and resumed oil exports. President Trump acknowledged talks but expressed caution. Trump's team is divided, with Defense Secretary Hegseth and Secretary of State Rubio favoring military pressure, while Vice President Vance and advisers Witkoff and Kushner back negotiations. Iran has warned it would target Gulf oil facilities if attacked.