WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that Iran had requested a meeting in Qatar, saying the talks would take place in Doha on Tuesday despite Tehran’s continued denial that any negotiations were planned.
Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote in capital letters: “IRAN HAS REQUESTED A MEETING. IT WILL TAKE PLACE TOMORROW IN DOHA!”
Iran, however, rejected the claim. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, quoted by Iranian state television, said no technical discussions or meetings of the joint working groups with the United States were scheduled before the end of the current Iranian week on Friday.
The conflicting statements come as tensions remain high in the Gulf following recent exchanges of fire that have placed a fragile ceasefire under increasing strain.
Qatar, supported by Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, has continued to play a central mediating role in facilitating dialogue between Tehran and Washington aimed at easing regional tensions and preventing further escalation.
The latest round of indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States was held in Switzerland on June 21. Delegations from Qatar and Pakistan also took part in the discussions as part of ongoing efforts to revive diplomatic engagement and promote stability in the Middle East.
