DOHA — U.S. and Iranian negotiators made positive progress in indirect talks in Qatar on Wednesday, mediators said, before pausing discussions ahead of funeral ceremonies for Iran's former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Qatari and Pakistani mediators, who facilitated separate meetings with the two sides in Doha, described the discussions as constructive and focused on implementing a June memorandum of understanding that had helped halt recent hostilities.
"The parties agreed to continue discussions over the coming period, with the next meeting to be scheduled at the earliest possible time following the funeral processions of the former Iranian Supreme Leader," Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari and Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a joint statement.
The talks built on prior outcomes from a summit in Switzerland and addressed issues including the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief and broader regional de-escalation, according to officials. U.S. President Donald Trump has described recent diplomatic efforts as advancing limits on Iran's nuclear program.
Khamenei was killed in U.S.-Israeli strikes in late February that marked the start of the recent conflict. His funeral processions are scheduled to begin this weekend and last several days.
No details were released on specific agreements reached in Doha, and both sides have emphasized that core disputes, including Iran's nuclear activities and frozen assets, remain under negotiation. Iranian officials have warned against any provocations during the mourning period.
The indirect format, conducted through mediators rather than direct high-level contacts, reflects ongoing caution despite the reported momentum. Further technical talks are expected after the funeral pause.
The situation remains fluid as mediators prepare to reconvene the parties.
