Qatar sees hope for US-Iran interim deal despite fresh strikes and Hormuz threats

Qatar said Tuesday it still sees hope for a US-Iran interim deal as mediators exchange proposals, despite fresh US strikes and threats to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz complicating efforts to end the war. A Qatari delegation met Iranian officials for over three hours Monday, with Washington and Tehran now reviewing proposals, according to foreign ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari. He said an interim agreement could build trust, though freedom of navigation remains "non-negotiable." The war began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, leading to blockades of Hormuz, a key oil route. Qatar is coordinating with Pakistan and Gulf neighbours to prevent escalation, while Iran insists its conditions must be met before Hormuz reopens.