DUBAI, June 11: As fighting between the United States and Iran entered a second consecutive day, diplomatic efforts to end the conflict showed little sign of progress.
The latest exchanges came amid deep disagreements over Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief and broader regional security issues, raising concerns that prospects for a negotiated settlement remain distant.
A major point of contention remains Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Washington is demanding that Tehran surrender the material, arguing it is only a short technical step away from weapons-grade enrichment.
Iran has rejected the demand, insisting its nuclear programme is peaceful and calling for the lifting of economic sanctions. Tehran is also seeking access to frozen assets before any final agreement is reached, a proposal US President Donald Trump has dismissed.
Regional tensions have also complicated negotiations. Iran has linked any peace deal to an end to fighting between its ally Hezbollah and Israel.
However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that military operations against the Lebanese militant group will continue, creating another obstacle to a broader settlement.
Efforts by international mediators continued despite the worsening situation. A Qatari diplomatic delegation, which had been holding talks in Tehran in coordination with the United States, departed the Iranian capital on Thursday after discussions with Iranian officials.
Details of the talks were not disclosed, but the visit underscored ongoing attempts to find a diplomatic off-ramp to the conflict.
Pakistan also voiced concern over the escalating hostilities, urging both Tehran and Washington to respect the ceasefire framework and avoid actions that could trigger a wider regional war.
Meanwhile, the strategic Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the crisis.
The narrow waterway is a crucial route for global oil shipments, and disruptions there have continued to affect international energy markets.
Iran’s control over access to the strait has become a significant bargaining tool in negotiations, while concerns persist about the impact on global fuel supplies and trade.
Maritime security in the region also remains fragile. The US military said it struck another vessel accused of violating its blockade on Iranian oil exports, marking the ninth merchant ship disabled since the operation began.
The incident highlighted the growing risks faced by commercial shipping and crews operating near the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.
With military exchanges continuing and key issues unresolved, hopes for a quick diplomatic breakthrough appear increasingly uncertain despite ongoing mediation efforts. (AP)
