Doha: Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi engaged in discussions on Sunday about regional issues amid ongoing tensions, as confirmed by Qatar's Foreign Ministry.

According to Anadolu Agency, the conversation focused on efforts to achieve peace and enhance security and stability in the region. The discussions, conducted via a phone call, were disclosed by the ministry on the US social media platform X. Sheikh Mohammed, who also serves as the foreign minister, reiterated Doha's support for mediation aimed at resolving the crisis between Iran and the US through peaceful means. He emphasized the importance of all parties responding positively to these efforts to create suitable conditions for progress in negotiations, thereby reducing the chances of renewed escalation.

During the dialogue, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the significance of freedom of navigation as a non-negotiable principle. He warned that closing the Strait of Hormuz or using it as leverage would deepen the crisis and endanger the vital interests of regional countries. He urged adherence to international law and the United Nations Charter, prioritizing the interests of the region and its people to strengthen regional and global security, support de-escalation, and ease tensions.

The discussion comes amidst heightened regional tensions following US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28, which prompted retaliation from Tehran against Israel and US allies in the Gulf, along with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Although a ceasefire was established on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, talks in Islamabad failed to yield a lasting agreement. The truce was later extended by US President Donald Trump without a set deadline, opening the door for diplomacy aimed at a permanent solution to the ongoing conflict.