US-Iran Indirect Talks to Resume After Khamenei Funeral, Mediators Say

Doha: Indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran aimed at consolidating a fragile ceasefire and advancing a broader peace agreement will resume after the funeral of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to mediators overseeing the dialogue.

As reported by AFP, officials from Qatar and Pakistan said discussions held in Doha on Wednesday produced encouraging progress, with both sides agreeing to continue engagement after the funeral ceremonies conclude.

Pakistan said the next round of talks would be scheduled at the earliest opportunity following Khamenei's funeral. The Iranian leader was killed on the first day of the conflict on February 28, after which leadership passed to his son, Mojtaba Khamenei.

The latest discussions focused on implementing the interim memorandum of understanding that halted hostilities and paved the way for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, negotiators still face significant challenges, particularly over Iran's nuclear programme and the broader framework for a permanent settlement.

According to reports, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the two sides agreed to establish a communication mechanism to document and address alleged violations of the memorandum. He also reiterated that Tehran had not agreed to direct negotiations with Washington.

US President Donald Trump expressed optimism over the diplomatic process, saying the effort to curb Iran's nuclear programme was progressing well.

Officials also discussed the release of frozen Iranian assets, with Gharibabadi saying part of an initial $6 billion package would be used to procure essential goods for Iran.

Meanwhile, differences remain over security in the Strait of Hormuz. Gharibabadi criticised recent regional security discussions led by the US military, insisting that the strategic waterway falls under Iran's authority and arguing that regional stability should be achieved through respect for sovereignty rather than foreign military presence, AFP reported.

Despite recent exchanges of fire in the Gulf, mediators expressed hope that continued dialogue would keep the peace process on track.