Iran-US nuclear talks gain cautious optimism from Qatar, Europe and markets

Indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States, mediated by Oman, have shown signs of progress. Qatar’s emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, said after a conversation with former U.S. President Donald Trump that Doha supports any initiative that reduces tensions and secures shipping in the Gulf. European officials echoed the sentiment, noting that a deal that eases military risks and restores security to the Strait of Hormuz could prevent a wider Middle‑East crisis.

Global markets responded positively: oil prices fell and equity indices in the United States and Europe rose on expectations of reduced disruption to Gulf oil flows. Pakistan’s interior minister, Mohsin Naqvi, is scheduled to travel to Tehran within days to discuss reviving the talks. Pakistani and Qatari mediators have drafted a de‑escalation formula that would see Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz and the United States lift its naval‑blockade of Iranian ports, while transit fees for ships would be suspended pending a final agreement.