The return to Tehran

Qatari mediators returned to Tehran on Friday 30 October 2026 as part of efforts to reach a deal between the US and Iran, an official briefed on the talks told Reuters. The mediation talks have been coordinated with the US, according to that official.

Qatar presented a draft peace plan to Iran on Sunday 25 October. A senior Iranian official dismissed the proposals as unacceptable and said Tehran would maintain its nuclear position, Reuters reported.

Where the two sides differ

Washington wants nuclear issues included from the start of negotiations, while Tehran demands the US first end its port blockade and lift oil-export sanctions. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Wednesday 28 October that Tehran remained in close contact with intermediaries to review ideas that could implement its own seven-day proposal aimed at ending the war in the Middle East.

On Thursday 29 October, President Donald Trump said Vice President JD Vance's outreach to Iran concerned medical supplies, following US media reports linking it to efforts to revive peace talks. The Associated Press has separately reported that the Qatar proposal sets a seven-day timeline with daily confidence-building steps, several countries acting as guarantors, and a response from Tehran expected by the end of the week.

Sources: Reuters