WASHINGTON: The US and Iran are edging toward a potential breakthrough in efforts to end their war, with Tehran showing a willingness to discuss issues related to its nuclear program that were previously off the table, according to a diplomat with knowledge of the talks.

Bloomberg reported on Friday that Iran is studying proposals related to its atomic activities that were presented by chief mediator Qatar, according to the diplomat, who asked not to be identified.

A statement from Doha said the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, discussed during a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Friday the diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating in the region.

An Iranian official told Reuters on Thursday that Tehran had sent a proposal regarding the nuclear file to the United States through Qatar, noting that the discussion of this proposal would not take place until Washington meets seven Iranian demands.

He added that Washington is currently reviewing this proposal.

Tehran demands, among other conditions, the lifting of US sanctions, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and compensation for the war, while Washington insists that nuclear issues must be part of any preliminary negotiations.