Tehran dismisses direct talks with Washington in Doha, casting doubt on the June 17 ceasefire deal amid fresh military exchanges.
Iran’s president rejected US threats as irrational, emphasizing adherence to a mutual understanding only if Washington complies with a memorandum of understanding. Tehran insisted its delegation’s presence in Doha this week excludes direct negotiations with the US, despite parallel American visits led by Jared Kushner and envoy Steve Witkoff.
The June 17 ceasefire agreement remains fragile, with both sides accusing each other of violations. Recent missile and drone strikes, including US bombings of Iranian military sites and Iranian retaliatory attacks in Kuwait and Bahrain, have heightened tensions. Indirect engagement through Qatari and Pakistani mediators may focus on Strait of Hormuz shipping, sidelining broader nuclear and truce issues.
Brent crude prices edged higher as uncertainty over negotiations and military escalation persisted. The lack of planned direct talks underscores the precarious state of diplomatic efforts.