US and Iranian officials held separate discussions with mediators on Monday in a renewed effort to find a diplomatic path to ending seven months of war, according to officials from both countries.

Further negotiations are expected to focus on an amended version of a seven day proposal presented by Iran last week on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The conflict began in late February with US and Israeli attacks on Iran and has killed thousands of people, while disruptions to major waterways have affected global energy markets and shipping.

The United States and Iran have previously reached two ceasefire agreements through mediated negotiations, in April and June. Both arrangements later broke down.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi remained in New York following the UN General Assembly........

© Naya Daur