Iran has stated that no negotiation meetings are scheduled with the United States in the coming days, refuting speculation that its delegation's visit to Qatar is related to discussions with US officials. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei made the announcement during a press briefing, as reported by Iran's Fars News Agency.
No Meetings Planned with US Side
Baghaei said, "In the coming days, we have no negotiation meetings at any level with the American side." He further clarified that the US representatives traveling to Qatar have no connection with the Iranian delegation's trip, which aims to follow up on implementing the memorandum of understanding (MoU), including Article 11.
Baghaei emphasized that negotiations on a comprehensive agreement have not yet started. "We have not yet entered the negotiation phase for the final agreement," he stated.
Conditions for Final Agreement Talks
According to Article 13 of the MoU, negotiations for the final agreement depend on the initiation and continued implementation of Articles 1, 4, 5, 10, and 11. These articles outline key confidence-building measures that must be fulfilled before formal talks can begin. Article 11 specifically requires the US to make Iran's frozen or restricted funds and assets fully available under mutually agreed procedures and to issue necessary licenses for access.
The 14-point MoU serves as a framework to end hostilities in West Asia. Baghaei stressed that the parties must first demonstrate progress on preliminary measures before moving to broader negotiations.
US Envoys to Travel to Doha
Meanwhile, the White House announced that US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Senior Adviser Jared Kushner will travel to Doha for discussions with Iran on Tuesday. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the development to Fox News, stating the meeting follows a request from Iran. "The president wants to see the peace process play out, and Iranians would be best to sign a good deal with the United States of America," Leavitt said.
Trump's Claim and Iran's Denial
Earlier, President Donald Trump claimed on Truth Social that Iran had requested a meeting, writing, "Iran has requested a meeting. It will take place tomorrow in Doha!" However, Iranian officials contradicted this. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi told state broadcaster IRIB that no technical working group meetings are scheduled this week under the MoU framework. He added that while consultations with Qatar continue, reports of technical talks in Doha could not be confirmed.
Gharibabadi stated, "The first round of technical talks will be held within the framework of the designated working groups, once conditions are in place and after an agreement is reached on the date and location."
Strait of Hormuz Tensions
The diplomatic engagement follows recent military escalation between the US and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz. According to Axios, a senior US official said, "We decided to stop all the kinetic activity," using military terminology for strikes. Another official confirmed both sides will stand down "for now," allowing vessels to move freely as technical talks continue.
Qatar has acted as a key mediator between Tehran and Washington. The differing public positions highlight ongoing tensions, even as Qatar facilitates consultations.
