The Prime Minister of Qatar urges for a resolution as tensions between the US and Iran persist.
Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani has underscored the urgent necessity for a diplomatic resolution between the United States and Iran, affirming Qatar's strong opposition to any military escalation in the region.
Al-Thani stated, "There is absolutely no chance that Qatar would back any form of military action in that area. We will persist until we witness a diplomatic settlement between the US and Iran. An agreement is essential."
These remarks came in response to US President
Donald Trump's hints regarding a possible "peace agreement" with Iran during a televised interview.
The Prime Minister highlighted regional concerns regarding potential military actions against Iranian nuclear facilities, declaring that Iran is "our neighboring country, and we must foster positive relations with all our neighbors... It benefits the region to cultivate a better rapport with Iran."
He noted significant progress in relations between Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations and Iran in recent years. While recognizing existing policy disagreements with Tehran, he affirmed that these distinctions have not interfered with diplomatic relations among Gulf countries.
Trump suggested that "interesting days" lie ahead for US-Iran relations, implying the potential for negotiating a new nuclear framework or considering other measures, hinting at military responses.
In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi dismissed the idea of direct negotiations with the US under the current circumstances, stating, "As long as the US maintains its policy of maximum pressure and threats, we will not engage in direct talks with the US."
Al-Thani also covered Qatar's role in mediating the ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict. He praised Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani's dedication to humanitarian efforts, asserting, "If we can save even one life, it is worth everything."
He acknowledged the substantial criticism directed at Qatar during the 15-month conflict, mentioning, "We’ve faced severe attacks for 15 months during this war on Gaza, which is truly extraordinary; no one could endure such an assault."
Despite these difficulties, Al-Thani expressed that Qatar's relentless attempts to negotiate a ceasefire had been fruitful, noting that the celebrations in both Gaza and Israel following the announcement brought him great satisfaction.
He attributed the successful ceasefire agreement to collaborative efforts involving Qatar, the US, and other stakeholders, especially praising US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff’s role in the negotiations.
Since January 19, a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement has been in effect in Gaza, halting Israeli military operations that have reportedly resulted in over 48,400 Palestinian fatalities, primarily among women and children, leaving the region in dire straits.
In November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to the Gaza conflict.
Additionally, Israel faces accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice for its military actions.