Qatar mediators push for U.S.-Iran deal amid tanker incidents in Strait of Hormuz

Qatari mediators have returned to Tehran to advance efforts for a peace deal between the United States and Iran, according to Iran's state-run IRNA news agency and Reuters.

The talks, coordinated with the U.S., involve a delegation led by a senior adviser to Qatar's prime minister and foreign minister, focusing on bilateral relations and regional developments.

Meanwhile, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reported that two oil tankers were stopped after unspecified incidents while attempting to transit an unauthorized route through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran considers illegal.

The IRGC stated the tankers had turned off navigation systems and were trying to exit through the unauthorized southern route, which the U.S. has promoted but Iran warns is risky.

This follows earlier reports of at least four tankers forced to stop after hitting sea mines in the area, and a tanker reportedly struck by a projectile, according to the U.K. navy's Maritime Trade Operations center.

Qatari mediation efforts continue amid these maritime tensions, with the goal of reducing conflict and fostering dialogue between Tehran and Washington.