Iran weighs proposed framework but remains wary of US intentions

Al Jazeera reported that Iran's presidential spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said at midnight on Thursday that the framework proposal had entered the review process at the Supreme National Security Council and that sessions would continue through the weekend. Foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said "no commitment is final yet" and that Tehran was mindful of past unilateral breakdowns. The proposal is reported to cover Strait of Hormuz traffic, export curbs and the so-called "proxy network" topics.

Al Jazeera said senior analyst Marwan Bishara said "Iran will seek a UN verification mechanism and US congressional ratification". US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said the framework was "an irreversible diplomatic step" and that the signing timetable would be clarified within weeks. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas said Brussels was ready to set up a backchannel with Tehran.

Qatar's Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman said his country was continuing its facilitation role and that closed-door talks in Doha were at their final stage. Brent futures eased 30 cents in the Asia session to $77.80 a barrel. The Tehran Stock Exchange main index added 0.4 per cent. Not investment advice.