US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are currently in Doha as part of a series of meetings with mediators to address a range of regional matters, including ongoing negotiations with Iran and developments related to Lebanon, according to Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari said the visit far broader mediation efforts led by Qatar, emphasizing that discussions are being held with intermediaries rather than through direct engagement between Washington and Tehran.

Al Ansari confirmed that technical-level discussions between US and Iranian delegations remain active, taking place both directly and indirectly with the involvement of mediators to sustain dialogue. These engagements are occurring in Doha and other locations, forming part of the established communication framework between the parties.

He also noted that high-level meetings between the two sides depend on tangible progress emerging from these technical discussions.

Regarding financial matters, Al Ansari stated that approximately $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds have not yet been transferred to Tehran. He explained that the release of these assets is directly tied to the advancement of negotiations between the United States and Iran.

Addressing recent tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, Al Ansari highlighted that maritime security remains a key item in the ongoing talks, alongside Iran’s nuclear programme and wider regional developments.

He reiterated Qatar’s priority to de-escalate tensions, restore safe navigation through the strategic waterway, and safeguard the wellbeing of populations across the region.

Al Ansari underlined that efforts to clear mines from the Strait represent a complex technical challenge, adding that Qatar welcomes international cooperation in this regard. However, he stressed that decisions on such operations ultimately rest with countries in the region.

Ensuring the safety of ship crews and commercial vessels remains an immediate concern, particularly in light of recent incidents where some vessels have been safely guided through the Strait while others were targeted.

In this context, Al Ansari expressed Qatar’s appreciation for the role played by the Sultanate of Oman, emphasizing solidarity with Muscat against any violations of its sovereignty, including incursions into its territorial waters.

He concluded by noting that restoring stability in the region will require comprehensive efforts addressing multiple interconnected challenges.