Efforts this week by Qatari mediators to broker a diplomatic breakthrough between the US and Iran have made little progress, with neither side willing to budge, according to three sources familiar with the talks, Axios reports.

They've reached an impasse. The Iranians are demanding what the US is not willing to do, and the US believes it is winning, so there is no need to compromise, one of the sources said.

The stalemate bolsters the belief on both sides that a renewed military conflict is becoming more likely. US officials think President Donald Trump could order a return to major combat operations against Iran after the US midterm elections.

Axios’ sources said Qatar will continue to try, but are increasingly frustrated with both sides.