Trump says Iran is in real discussions, as Tehran signals that a framework for talks with the U.S. is beginning to take shape.

Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, held discussions in Tehran on Saturday with Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, amid growing regional tensions and heightened diplomatic activity.

During the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed reviewed ongoing efforts to reduce instability in the region and reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to initiatives aimed at achieving peaceful solutions that bolster security and stability.

In a statement, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that he “stressed the need for concerted efforts to spare the peoples of the region the consequences of escalation and to continue coordination with brotherly and friendly countries to address differences through diplomatic means.”

The talks were held as tensions rise in the Gulf, with the United States increasing its military presence and engaging in confrontational rhetoric towards Iran.

U.S. President Donald Trump warned that a large fleet, including the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, was being sent to the region, asserting that he hoped Tehran would negotiate a deal on its nuclear programme, describing the negotiations as “seriously talking to us.” He also reiterated that any Iranian nuclear agreement must ensure the country has “no nuclear weapons.”

Iran, while asserting that its nuclear programme is peaceful, has warned that any U.S. military action would trigger a “swift and comprehensive” response. Tehran has indicated willingness to engage in negotiations under “fair, balanced, and noncoercive terms,” with Ali Larijani noting that “the formation of a framework for negotiations is progressing,” though without providing further specifics.

In parallel, regional actors including Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia have intensified diplomatic engagement to prevent a confrontation. Turkiye has encouraged dialogue between Washington and Tehran, while Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman assured Iran that Riyadh would not permit its territory or airspace to be used for military actions against Tehran.