Status: Diplomatic contacts confirmed; formal negotiations and a final agreement remain unconfirmed
Updated: August 5, 2026
DOHA/WASHINGTON/TEHRAN — Qatar says regional mediators have made progress in efforts to end the conflict between the United States and Iran, although Washington and Tehran continue to give conflicting accounts about whether formal negotiations have begun.
Qatar, Oman and Pakistan are coordinating diplomatic contacts and exchanging draft proposals between the two sides. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari described the discussions as being at an advanced stage, while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said progress had been achieved but no final settlement was in place.
President Donald Trump has said talks with Iran are underway. Tehran, however, maintains that it is not holding direct negotiations with Washington and says its current discussions with Oman concern temporary arrangements for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
The diplomatic activity has affected energy markets. Brent crude fell to $78.44 a barrel during early trading on August 5, extending its weekly decline to more than 12%. Nevertheless, the Strait of Hormuz remained severely disrupted, leaving significant risks for international oil and liquefied-natural-gas supplies.
Why it matters: A settlement could reduce the danger of further military escalation and restore traffic through one of the world’s most important energy corridors. Until both governments confirm a formal agreement, reports of a breakthrough should be treated cautiously.
