The meeting underscored Qatar’s role as a key intermediary for Washington as it awaited Tehran’s response to a proposed peace plan.

“The Secretary expressed appreciation for Qatar’s partnership on a range of issues,” State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said in a statement.

“The Secretary and the Foreign Minister also discussed US support for Qatar’s defence, and the importance of continued close coordination to deter threats and promote stability and security across the Middle East.”

Rubio had earlier indicated that Washington expected a response from Iran within hours, but as of Saturday, there were no signs of progress on the proposal, which aims to formally end the war before addressing more contentious issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme.

The meeting in Miami comes as Qatar continues to facilitate dialogue between the warring parties.

A Qatari liquefied natural gas tanker was reported sailing toward the strait on Saturday en route to Pakistan, in what sources described as a confidence-building move approved by Iran.

If completed, it would be the first transit of a Qatari LNG vessel through the strait since the conflict began.

Rubio emphasised the importance of continued cooperation with Qatar to maintain regional stability and security, though the statement did not specifically mention Iran.