Middle East: Mystery surrounds US-Iran meeting in Doha; EU envoy visits Qatar

A planned meeting between Iran and the United States in Doha, Qatar, has become shrouded in ambiguity, with Tehran reportedly denying direct talks despite U.S. envoy Donald Trump's announcement of renewed negotiations. While U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were expected, Iran has excluded direct dialogue, though it confirmed participation in separate "technical tables" with mediators.

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We are ready to intervene and will without hesitation take the necessary and proportionate measures in response to any violation of the terms of the ceasefire between Iran and the United States.

Iran's interim Defense Minister, Majid Ebn-Reza, issued a strong statement asserting the country's readiness to act decisively against any ceasefire violations. He cited a long history of mistrust and hostile actions by the U.S. and warned against "extra-regional interferences" that exacerbate misunderstanding, distrust, and instability in the region.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi engaged in a phone conversation with his French counterpart, Jean-Noël Barrot. The discussion focused on recent regional developments and the implementation of a memorandum of understanding signed between Iran and the United States. The specifics of their conversation regarding the agreement and efforts to end the conflict with the U.S. and Israel were not disclosed.

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The relations between Tehran and Washington are rooted in decades of mistrust and repeated hostile behavior.

The situation remains tense, with conflicting reports and statements from both sides. While the U.S. signaled a potential breakthrough in negotiations, Iran's stance suggests a more cautious approach, emphasizing technical discussions rather than direct engagement. The involvement of European mediators like France highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Persian Gulf region.

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Denouncing the 'extra-regional interferences in the region,' he stated that these only increase misunderstanding, distrust, and instability.