Iran Ends Doha Talks Focusing on Frozen Funds, Lebanon, and Strait of Hormuz Tensions

Iran announced on Wednesday that its talks in Doha with Qatari and Pakistani representatives have concluded. The Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister stated that a communication channel was established to report and discuss any violations of the memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States. During the talks, it was agreed that part of the $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds would be used to purchase goods according to Iran's needs.

The Iranian delegation highlighted alleged U.S. breaches of commitments under the memorandum, particularly regarding ending hostilities in Lebanon. Discussions also covered the increased U.S. military presence in the region and threats from Washington. According to Saudi newspaper Al-Hadath, Tehran demanded phased implementation of the memorandum with five key clauses prioritized before addressing other issues, focusing especially on access to and transfer of its frozen assets to Iran's central bank.

One central topic was the Strait of Hormuz, where recent Iranian drone attacks targeted two commercial ships, prompting U.S. Central Command to conduct two rounds of strikes on Iranian military sites, including missile storage, drone facilities, radar systems, communication infrastructure, air defenses, and mine-laying capabilities.

Earlier, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf emphasized that ongoing talks with the U.S. are limited to implementing the memorandum's clauses, especially those concerning Lebanon, and rejected new negotiations before these conditions are met. He accused Israel of trying to undermine the agreement through military escalation in Lebanon. Qalibaf also noted that Iran resumed oil exports after the lifting of the blockade on its ports, surpassing 40 million barrels, after a complete halt during the U.S. sanctions period.

Iranian diplomacy remains a priority, but Tehran is prepared for war if necessary. Additionally, Iran's UN ambassador warned Israel against public threats made by its defense minister toward Iranian leadership.