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The State Department said Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Saturday in Miami with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani as the Trump administration continued pushing for a deal to end the conflict with Iran.

The meeting was initially reported by Axios, which, also said White House envoy Steve Witkoff was involved.

Axios, citing two sources familiar with the discussions, said the meeting focused on efforts to secure a memorandum of understanding that could lay the groundwork for broader negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

The State Department relayed the meeting shows “U.S. support for Qatar’s defense, and importance of continued close coordination to deter threats and promote stability and security across Middle East.”

The talks came as the United States awaited Iran’s latest response to a proposed framework being exchanged through intermediaries.

Qatar has emerged as a key behind-the-scenes player in the negotiations despite Pakistan formally serving as the primary mediator since the conflict began, Axios reported.

U.S. officials reportedly view the Qataris as particularly effective in communicating with Tehran.

Al Thani had met Friday with Vice President JD Vance in Washington before changing plans to immediately return to Doha and instead traveling to Miami for the meeting with Rubio and Witkoff, according to one of the sources cited by Axios.

While in Miami, the Qatari prime minister also spoke with the Saudi foreign minister about mediation efforts, the report said.

The latest diplomatic activity comes as multiple regional powers continue trying to prevent further escalation following months of fighting between Iran, the United States and Israel.

One source told Axios that Qatar, Pakistan, Egypt, Turkey and Saudi Arabia are all working together to encourage a negotiated settlement.

“The mediators are urging both parties to de-escalate and focus on getting a deal,” the source said, according to Axios.

The Trump administration has continued pursuing indirect talks with Tehran while simultaneously maintaining military and economic pressure on the Iranian regime.

The State Department did not immediately respond to Axios’ request for comment.