Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and US President Donald Trump have discussed diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions.

The two leaders held a telephone conversation on Friday, according to a statement from Doha. Their discussion focused on mediation efforts aimed at de-escalating the regional crisis.

The conversation came as Iran sent Washington a new nuclear proposal through Qatar, according to a senior Iranian official who spoke to Reuters.

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The Iranian official said Tehran would discuss the proposal only after Washington met seven conditions set by Iran.

The United States is reviewing the proposal, but the official declined to provide further details.

Iran’s top security official, Mohsen Rezaei, outlined Tehran’s position on Thursday during a visit to Russia. He said Iran would neither negotiate with Washington nor reopen the Strait of Hormuz until the United States fulfilled its demands.

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Among Iran’s demands are the lifting of US sanctions, the release of frozen Iranian assets and compensation for war-related damage.

Washington, however, has insisted that nuclear issues must form part of any initial negotiations.

Qatar intensifies mediation efforts

Mediators have stepped up diplomatic efforts to end the war between Iran and the United States.

The renewed efforts come amid concerns that fighting could resume following the US midterm elections. President Trump had declined to rule out restarting military operations after the vote.

Iran has also indicated that it could expand its retaliation if the conflict resumes.

Qatar has played a role in facilitating indirect communication between Washington and Tehran. The latest phone call between the Qatari emir and Trump highlights ongoing diplomatic engagement to reduce tensions.

Conflict spreads across the Middle East

The conflict began on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran. Tehran responded with strikes against Israel and Gulf countries hosting US military bases.

Fighting also spread to Lebanon, where Israel clashed with Iran-backed Hezbollah.

The conflict later extended to Yemen, where Iran-aligned Houthi forces attacked energy facilities, airports and other targets in Saudi Arabia.

The escalating regional situation has raised concerns over maritime security, energy supplies and the safety of commercial shipping.

Diplomatic efforts through Qatar and other regional channels continue as countries seek to prevent further escalation and find a path towards ending the conflict.