Qatar Reaffirms Commitment to Dialogue in Iran-US Crisis

Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated that dialogue is the only way to achieve a sustainable solution to the crisis between Iran and the US, Qatar's state news agency QNA reported, Qatar News Agency (QNA) said in a statement.

The Ministry's Director of Media and Communication, Ibrahim bin Sultan Al Hashmi, emphasized the urgent need for a resolution to spare the region and the global economy from the costs of escalation. He stressed that a military solution is not the answer and that Qatar, as a mediator, remains optimistic about reaching a solution that ends the crisis and opens the Strait of Hormuz.

Al Hashmi also highlighted the potential consequences of targeting internet cables in the Strait of Hormuz, which would primarily harm the region's people, including Iranians. He pointed out that the US and Israel do not directly benefit from the Gulf's waters, whereas regional countries, including Iran, rely on them for desalination, navigation, and fisheries.

Regarding President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Qatar, Al Hashmi said it aims to build on the countries' deep-rooted relations and develop their ties in energy, economy, investment, and defense. The Qatari-French talks also offer an opportunity to enhance their strategic dialogue.

Qatar's efforts to diversify its partnerships and build its defense capabilities do not conflict with its role as a mediator, Al Hashmi said. He emphasized that all countries in the region should be capable of deterrence and self-defense.

The Iran-US crisis has been ongoing, with Qatar playing a key role in mediation efforts.

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil supplies, has been a point of contention in the crisis.