US and Iran Begin New Indirect Talks in Doha Amid Tensions and Military Considerations

Indirect technical talks between the United States and Iran have commenced in Doha, Qatar, with Qatar and Pakistan acting as mediators. The negotiations involve lead negotiators and expert teams, while US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with Qatar's prime minister but are not directly participating in the talks. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan also met with US Vice President J.D. Vance as part of the diplomatic efforts.

The talks come amid reports that US President Donald Trump recently considered resuming full-scale military action against Iran. Trump held discussions with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Cain about potentially abandoning negotiations and launching extensive strikes on Iranian targets. Some officials described this as a "finishing the job" approach against the Iranian regime. However, Trump expressed concern that renewed large-scale attacks could undermine diplomatic efforts and reduce Washington's chances of dismantling Iran's nuclear program.

Trump appears willing to extend the negotiation deadline beyond August 18, signaling a preference to avoid renewed war for now. The Pentagon regularly briefs the president on military options, and Trump frequently holds formal and informal meetings on Iran. Despite this, he continues to seek a breakthrough, keeping the possibility of military action open if talks fail. Last week, Trump stated that Iran "agrees to everything I want, and they must," warning that the US would act if necessary.

Key sticking points in the negotiations include Iran's demand for billions in fees for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which the US insists remain free as before the Iran-Iraq war. Another major dispute concerns Iran's nuclear program, with Tehran refusing severe restrictions while Trump insists Iran has already committed to them. The deadlock has prompted Trump to consider alternatives, including renewed airstrikes on Iranian military sites, though he has repeatedly declined to authorize broad operations since the ceasefire, favoring diplomacy.

Meanwhile, Trump's envoys arrived in Doha for the new round of talks but have not met Iranian representatives directly, conducting negotiations through intermediaries. Technical experts from both sides are expected to continue indirect discussions this week. White House officials emphasize Trump's preference for diplomacy and suggest Iran would act wisely to reach a good agreement with the US. Pentagon spokespeople declined to comment on the reports.

This latest diplomatic effort reflects ongoing tensions and the complex balance between military pressure and negotiation in US-Iran relations.