US and Iranian Delegations Hold Direct Talks in Same Room

Middle Eastern outlets frame the talks as part of a wider regional effort to avoid a wider war and protect Gulf economies that depend on open sea lanes. They highlight Saudi, Qatari and Pakistani roles as hosts or go-betweens, while noting that Iran wants recognition of its influence and relief from US sanctions. Many expect that any lasting deal will have to balance Iran’s demands with Gulf Arab security concerns and shared control over Hormuz.

• •Saudi Arabia is closely tracking the Islamabad talks and engaging Iran’s foreign minister to avoid a direct confrontation in Gulf waters.
• •Qatar is rejecting reports that it will transfer funds to Iran in exchange for halting attacks linked to the Hormuz crisis.
• •Iranian leaders are calling for a "balanced and fair" agreement that includes sanctions relief and respect for Iran’s regional role.
• •Gulf states fear that a prolonged blockade threat at Hormuz will damage their export revenues and investor confidence.
• •Regional commentators see Pakistan’s hosting of the talks as a chance for Islamabad to raise its diplomatic profile while managing its own security ties with both Washington and Tehran.