Negotiators from Iran traveled to Qatar on Monday as discussions continued on key issues including the country’s nuclear program and access to frozen overseas assets.
At the same time, U.S. forces carried out strikes targeting missile launch sites and vessels reportedly involved in mine-laying activities in southern Iran. U.S. Central Command said the actions were defensive in nature and stressed that the ongoing ceasefire was still in effect.
According to Centcom, the strikes were aimed at protecting U.S. forces and did not signal the end of the ceasefire arrangement. Iranian media reported casualties among Revolutionary Guard members and explosions near coastal areas, while authorities later stated that the situation was under control and there was no threat to civilians.
The developments come as Iranian officials, including parliamentary representatives and economic authorities, participate in discussions in Qatar. Talks are expected to include the potential release of frozen Iranian assets held in foreign banks, as well as broader economic arrangements.
Reports suggest that proposals under discussion could involve partial unfreezing of Iranian funds held abroad, including in financial institutions outside Iran. The issue has been a key point of negotiation in recent diplomatic efforts.
Separately, discussions have included measures related to maritime activity in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. Any agreement is expected to address commercial shipping operations and related regulatory arrangements, while further negotiations on nuclear-related issues may follow within a set timeframe.
U.S. officials have stated that diplomatic progress remains possible despite the latest military activity. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global oil and gas shipments pass, remains a central focus of the talks due to its importance in international trade flows.
Iran has indicated that any broader arrangement would also involve regional maritime considerations and operational coordination in key shipping lanes.
Officials from both sides continue to exchange proposals as discussions progress in Qatar, with further diplomatic engagement expected in the coming weeks.
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