US-Iran Talks Stall as Qatar Mediation Fails to Break Impasse

US-Qatar mediated negotiations between the US and Iran have reached a stalemate, with American officials warning of a potential resumption of large-scale military operations, according to Axios. Qatar's mediator Ali al-Tawadi held hours-long talks in New York on September 28 with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, discussing a two-page compromise proposal addressing Tehran's demand to lift the US naval blockade and Washington's demand for concrete Iranian steps on its nuclear program. No significant progress was achieved despite initial White House optimism. Qatari mediators are increasingly frustrated with both sides' positions. US officials believe President Trump may consider renewing major military operations after the midterm elections, though this remains an assessment rather than an announced decision. Iran's foreign minister stated diplomacy remains the only path to resolution.