Defense officials from Iran and Qatar have held talks in Tehran, marking a fresh step in diplomatic efforts to stabilize the Persian Gulf region.
The meeting comes as Qatari mediators work to finalize a peace agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States.
The engagement underscores the growing role of Gulf states in brokering dialogue.
Regional nations have previously urged the United States to pursue a diplomatic resolution, citing the need to reduce tensions that threaten energy security and maritime trade routes.
For markets, the development offers a potential counterweight to geopolitical risk.
Persistent friction in the Strait of Hormuz has kept shipping insurance costs elevated and introduced volatility into crude oil pricing.