Washington/Tehran: Diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran have intensified as mediators attempt to revive negotiations aimed at reducing the conflict and restoring normal maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has received a U.S. response to its latest proposal through Qatari mediators. The proposal includes a seven-day trust-building period and measures connected with reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The main disagreement reportedly concerns the sequence in which the proposed steps would be implemented.

The latest diplomatic activity follows Iran’s proposal for a phased reopening of the strategically important waterway. Tehran has linked the move to conditions involving the U.S. blockade, sanctions and negotiations over its nuclear programme.

Qatar has been playing a central mediation role, carrying messages between Washington and Tehran in an effort to narrow the differences between the two sides. The diplomatic discussions also build on an earlier memorandum that included provisions related to Iran’s nuclear activities and maritime access.

However, major differences remain. U.S. President Donald Trump has previously rejected Iran’s proposed terms, while Iranian officials have continued to seek a formal response through diplomatic channels.

The Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the dispute because it is one of the world’s most important energy routes. Disruption in the waterway has affected oil shipments from the Gulf and contributed to concerns about global energy supplies.

Recent developments have nevertheless reduced some of the immediate pressure on international oil markets. Gulf exports have recovered, while Saudi Arabia has resumed oil shipments through Yanbu. Reuters reported that Gulf oil exports had returned to levels comparable with their 2025 average during the latest week.

The diplomatic process remains uncertain. Washington and Tehran still disagree over sanctions relief, access to frozen Iranian assets, maritime restrictions and the future of Iran’s nuclear programme.

For now, Qatar’s mediation has kept a diplomatic channel open despite the continuing differences. Any agreement on a temporary ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz could have significant consequences for regional security and international energy markets.