Doha: The United States and Iran have initiated technical discussions in Doha, Qatar, aiming to solidify an agreement on maritime navigation and establish a lasting ceasefire.

According to Oman News Agency, the discussions involve US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who have met with Qatar's Prime Minister. While Qatar, alongside Pakistan, is facilitating the talks, they are not directly participating in the discussions.

The foundation of these negotiations is a 14-point interim agreement signed recently, designed to end hostilities that erupted following US and Israeli military actions against Iran in February. The agreement also seeks to reopen regional maritime navigation channels, with a target of reaching a permanent deal within 60 days.

The partial resumption of maritime navigation in the region is notable. Prior to the conflict, the strait was a crucial route, handling 20 percent of the global oil and liquefied natural gas trade.