Doha: Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani urged support for efforts to de-escalate regional tensions during a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized Qatar's commitment to aiding ongoing efforts for a comprehensive agreement aimed at resolving the conflict between the United States and Iran.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Qatari Foreign Ministry shared via the US social media company X that Sheikh Mohammed reaffirmed Doha's full backing for the mediation initiatives in progress. He highlighted the importance of constructive engagement from all involved parties to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.
Sheikh Mohammed also underscored the significance of maintaining freedom of navigation, declaring it a fundamental principle that should not be compromised. He cautioned against closing the Strait of Hormuz or using it as leverage, warning that such actions could exacerbate the crisis and threaten the interests of regional nations.
The Qatari foreign minister called for respect for international law and good neighborly relations, urging all parties to prioritize the welfare and interests of the region's populace. The backdrop includes heightened tensions following US and Israeli strikes against Iran in February, which led to retaliatory measures by Tehran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
A ceasefire had been implemented on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, but subsequent discussions in Islamabad did not yield a lasting resolution. US President Donald Trump later decided to extend the truce indefinitely.