Qatar confirms US envoys in Doha, rules out direct talks with Iran

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry has confirmed that US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are currently in Doha, though no direct discussions with Iranian officials are planned during their visit. According to a ministry spokesperson, the US representatives are scheduled to hold talks with mediators to review the latest developments in ongoing talks. He clarified that the $6 billion in frozen Iranian assets held in Qatar has not yet been released to Iran. The official stated that the transfer of the frozen funds remains closely tied to the overall progress of diplomatic discussions between Iran and the US. Commenting on regional security, the official said a special de-escalation hotline helped manage tensions during last week’s exchange of fire between the US and Iran. Qatar, alongside Oman, is also working to ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that freedom of passage through the strategic waterway remains a top priority. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran’s immediate focus is on ensuring the implementation of the MoU reached with the US. He said an expert delegation has been sent to Doha specifically to oversee progress on the agreement and pursue Iran’s demands under the deal. He noted that under Article 10 of the MoU, the US has already issued waivers allowing Iranian oil exports, adding that Tehran is closely monitoring its execution. Iranian officials are also pressing for the release of frozen financial assets under Article 11 of the agreement. Baghaei emphasised that Iran will not engage in any negotiations with US officials in the coming days, insisting that the presence of the US representatives in Qatar is unrelated to the Iranian delegation’s visit. Witkoff, Kushner to Hold Talks With Iran in Doha: White House