Qatar proposes Iran inspections deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz

Qatar is proposing a deal in which Iran would allow UN inspectors to visit bombed nuclear sites, as part of efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and reduce the risk of renewed conflict. The proposal would let Iran keep its highly enriched uranium stockpile in the country, while leaving options such as diluting the uranium content open.

Under the plan, the US would lift its naval blockade and release some of Iran’s $8bn in frozen assets; Iran would permit International Atomic Energy Agency inspections and reopen the strait on the second day using a route agreed with Oman. Tehran has other conditions, including an end to the war in Lebanon, a US withdrawal from Iran’s coastline, sanctions relief and reparations. Iran remains distrustful of the inspectors, while Oman is discussing how the shipping route could be registered with the International Maritime Organisation.