Expert points to earlier understandings while highlighting sanctions and compensation as key obstacles
DOHA: Prospects for renewed diplomacy between Iran and the United States may depend on reviving the memorandum of understanding reached in June, according to Sultan Barakat, a professor at Hamad Bin Khalifa University in Qatar.
Speaking to Al Jazeera, and quoted by the reformist newspaper close to the administration led by Massoud Phiziskhkian , the Qatari analyst said any rapid breakthrough would likely begin with provisions that both sides had already accepted during previous negotiations rather than starting a completely new process.
He noted that Iran and the United States had reportedly reached partial understandings on several issues, including Iran’s potential role in the future management of the Strait of Hormuz. He also suggested that both sides had effectively agreed to postpone detailed discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme while focusing on other areas of mutual concern.
Major disputes remain unresolved
However, Barakat cautioned that significant obstacles continue to stand in the way of a comprehensive agreement. He identified sanctions relief and Iran’s reported demand for approximately $300 billion in compensation as the most difficult issues facing negotiators.
He also argued that President Donald Trump’s negotiating style complicates the diplomatic process, saying the US leader often announces expected outcomes before establishing the practical framework needed to achieve them.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials have continued to publicly deny that direct negotiations with Washington are currently taking place, despite repeated statements from Trump expressing optimism about a possible agreement.
Regional powers favour diplomatic solution
Barakat further said Gulf states remain strongly opposed to any prolonged regional conflict because they have already suffered economic and security consequences from recent tensions. According to the analyst, Saudi Arabia has increased diplomatic efforts aimed at encouraging Washington to pursue de-escalation and negotiations.
Although previous peace initiatives have struggled to produce lasting results, Barakat said it remains uncertain whether the current diplomatic efforts will ultimately succeed. He added that questions remain over whether a clear implementation mechanism exists to transform any future understanding into a durable agreement between Tehran and Washington.
احتمال دارد مذاکرات صلح ایران و آمریکا بر پایه تفاهمنامه ژوئن از سر گرفته شود
سلطان برکات، استاد دانشگاه حمد بن خلیفه قطر در گفت و گو با الجزیره:
▪️هرگونه توافق سریع میان ایران و آمریکا احتمالاً بر اساس تفاهمنامه (MoU) اولیهای خواهد بود که در ماه ژوئن مورد توافق قرار گرفت.…
— شرق (@SharghDaily) August 3, 2026
