Vance Says Iran, U.S. to Set Up Direct Military Channel in Qatar

U.S. Vice President JD Vance said in an interview published Thursday by UnHerd that Israel and the wider region should retain the right to defend themselves, while efforts continue to reduce escalation. He said the goal is to ensure all sides can protect themselves at the same time as steps are taken to prevent further conflict.

According to Vance, Washington and Tehran have agreed that a representative of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps will be stationed in Doha, the capital of Qatar, next to a U.S. Central Command, or Centcom, representative. He said the arrangement is intended to settle disputes and avoid additional clashes.

Separately, the United Arab Emirates, described as the most pro-Israel state in the Gulf Cooperation Council, is holding unprecedented talks with Iran and the Revolutionary Guards about economic incentives. Those contacts are taking place in Switzerland.

As part of the discussions, the sides have reached a principle agreement to create a direct military communications channel between the Revolutionary Guards and Centcom, with the aim of preventing future escalations.