US and Iran hold indirect technical talks in Doha amid conflicting reports on oil exports

Indirect technical discussions between United States and Iranian officials are continuing in Doha, facilitated by Qatar and Pakistan. US President Donald Trump stated that “very good meetings” took place and that “denuclearization of Iran is progressing well.” Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi announced the establishment of working groups to develop a memorandum of understanding and a final peace agreement, though formal negotiations have not yet begun. US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met Qatari officials to prepare for the talks but are not directly involved. Separately, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent asserted that only China is purchasing Iranian oil due to concerns over potential sanctions, despite their removal. This statement contrasts with earlier reports indicating substantial Iranian oil exports. Monitoring firm Kpler also observed ongoing vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz despite security tensions. Sources: Радіо Свобода