Diplomatic efforts led by Qatari mediators continued in Doha as international stakeholders weighed the prospects of a lasting ceasefire, even as Washington and Tehran exchanged renewed warnings over regional security and maritime transit in the Persian Gulf.
President Donald Trump stated that the United States has largely dismantled Iran’s military capabilities but still needs to address “one or two targets,” including a suspected underground nuclear complex at Pickaxe Mountain. While maintaining that negotiations are ongoing, Trump asserted that the U.S. is under no immediate pressure to launch offensive operations, noting that the country’s nuclear infrastructure has been heavily impacted.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated that no final decision has been taken regarding renewed military strikes. Speaking at a G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Atlanta, Rubio emphasized that while the U.S. retains full military readiness to achieve its objectives, the preference remains for a peaceful resolution. He also underscored international concerns regarding regional energy security, pointing to threats against neighboring infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials maintained a firm stance. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that negotiators are in Qatar reviewing proposals that could fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within two days, provided Washington meets conditions including lifting naval blockades, releasing frozen assets, and lifting oil sanctions. Araghchi added that direct talks with the U.S. are not currently planned.
Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei warned the United States and Israel against restarting hostilities, asserting that Tehran’s armed forces would impose no geographical limitations on potential defensive responses if conflict resumes. Army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia further cautioned that any renewed war could outlast previous engagements and that Washington would not dictate its terms.
Regional actors have expressed deep anxiety over the impasse. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the United Emirati President, voiced hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough while confirming that the UAE remains braced for the worst. Similar concerns were raised at security forums in Bahrain, where Saudi and Egyptian officials stressed the destructive potential of an expanded second round of conflict.
Maritime tensions in the Strait of Hormuz remained acute. The U.K. Marine Trade Operations Centre reported a record number of incidents in October, with numerous vessels encountering projectiles or mine explosions along southern shipping lanes. While U.S. Central Command maintained that primary transit routes are clear and operating under naval escort, Iranian forces continued to assert restrictions on unauthorized commercial traffic through the waterway.
