Washington, Sept 29:
The United States and Iran have resumed indirect contacts through mediators in a fresh effort to end the seven-month conflict, with officials on both sides holding separate discussions.
The renewed diplomatic effort comes as continuing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz keep global energy markets on edge. Iran has reportedly expressed doubts about reaching an agreement before the situation around the key shipping route deteriorates further.
The talks are expected to focus on a modified version of a seven-day proposal put forward by Iran during the UN General Assembly. The conflict has disrupted expectations in energy markets, although crude exports from major Middle Eastern producers have recovered to 12.8 million barrels a day in September, according to Kpler data cited by Reuters.