Axios reports Qatar is leading mediation between the U.S. and Iran with support
from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey. Qatar negotiator Ali al-Thawadi
visited Tehran earlier this week to discuss a potential deal with the Trump
administration. Washington has demanded Iran surrender its enriched uranium
stockpile; Iran insists the U.S. first lift a maritime blockade and release
frozen Iranian funds. Mediators warned Iran that accepting such proposals could
be the only way to avoid large-scale strikes after the U.S. midterms. Saudi,
Turkish and Pakistani security officials conveyed the same message during recent
visits to Tehran. A U.S. official said Saudi officials told the White House Iran
fears U.S. and Israeli strikes after the midterms and asked Trump not to rush
into war but to give negotiations more time.
