Qatar calls for urgent action to prevent regional escalation
Hanane Djoua
Doha
The State of Qatar has firmly condemned the recent Israeli strike against Iran and called for urgent efforts to restore calm.
'This reckless escalation is yet another episode in a continuous cycle of tensions, despite the fact that all countries in the region are working towards peaceful solutions and making efforts to de-escalate,' Dr Majed Mohammed Al Ansari, Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at the weekly media briefing on Tuesday.
Dr Al Ansari said, 'However, there is one player in the region determined to escalate tensions and thwart all peace efforts. We stress that the regional security framework cannot withstand further shocks and escalation.'
He warned that the current reckless pursuit of escalation has a very negative impact on regional security, which is already under immense strain from multiple crises.
Dr Al Ansari said, 'For the first time in over seven years, negotiations between Iran and the United States were moving in a positive direction.'
He credited Qatar and regional partners, notably the Sultanate of Oman, for supporting ongoing dialogue aimed at easing tensions.
'Qatar's communications continue — not only with the two sides but also with all relevant parties, including the United States and international organizations— with the goal of reaching a calm that spares the region from the dangers of an unpredictable war,' Dr Al Ansari stated.
Expressing grave concern over attacks on critical infrastructure, he said, 'We strongly condemn the reckless targeting of nuclear and energy facilities in the Gulf. This is an irresponsible act with serious repercussions for global energy markets and regional stability.'
The Gulf region remains vital to the world's energy supply, with nearly 30 percent of global oil exports and 25 percent of natural gas exports passing through the Gulf waters and the Strait of Hormuz.
Reassuring the public on Qatar's readiness, Dr Al Ansari confirmed that, 'the Ministry of Municipality has reported no environmental pollution to date, and maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz continues uninterrupted.' He stressed that Qatar is closely monitoring the situation daily to ensure the safety of both waters and navigation.
On the diplomatic front, Qatar maintains 'daily communications with all relevant parties,' including direct contacts with Iranian President and Foreign Minister, alongside other regional actors.
'Many countries, including Qatar, are exerting continuous efforts to de-escalate and avoid the disastrous consequences of this dangerous escalation following Israel's attack,' he noted.
Dr Al Ansari said, 'Iran's position is clear: negotiations will only begin once the aggression stops.'
Qatar is working closely with parties aligned with this view to achieve a peaceful resolution.
Regarding broader regional tensions, he reaffirmed Qatar's ongoing mediation efforts in the Gaza Strip, warning that 'the escalation between Iran and Israel delays critical breakthroughs on key humanitarian and political issues in Gaza.'
He called for 'an immediate end to violence and a return to peace efforts in all areas, including Iran-US relations and Gaza.'
Focusing on energy security, Dr Al Ansari highlighted the strategic importance of the Pars gas field, operated by multinational companies from Europe, America, and China.
'While Qatar's North Field remains secure and production stable, reckless targeting on the Iranian side of the field is cause for concern for the entire global energy supply chain.'
He emphasized that Gulf security is inseparable from energy security, a position shared by the United States.
Confirming that the United States is not a direct party to the current conflict, Dr Al Ansari said, 'We have been actively supporting mediation between Iran and the US. Despite setbacks, the US remains interested in reaching a diplomatic agreement, and Qatar continues to pursue de-escalation through ongoing contacts.'
Addressing safety concerns for Qatar's international operations, he reassured, 'Our sites, especially those in Africa, are secure with no immediate threats. However, given the volatile regional situation, vigilance is required. The safety of over 10,000 international workers and clients at these sites is paramount, and we call on the international community to condemn any threats against them.'
'Qatar has developed comprehensive contingency plans covering all potential scenarios — from energy security to citizen protection — and remains in a state of readiness proven over past regional crises.'
On humanitarian issues, he voiced deep concern about Gaza's worsening conditions
He said, 'The suspension of aid since March, combined with daily civilian casualties, is unacceptable. The only viable solution is the immediate lifting of restrictions to allow humanitarian aid to flow unimpeded. Pressure must be applied to open crossings and empower international institutions. Any delay is a crime against humanity.'
He said Qatar maintains close cooperation with the International Energy Agency, continuously monitoring the Gulf waters.
Dr Al Ansari stressed that no pollution has been detected and navigation remains robust. He, however, warned that the targeting of energy infrastructure is unacceptable and risks severe repercussions.
On Sudan, Dr Al Ansari reaffirmed Qatar's consistent stance calling for peaceful solutions and humanitarian support.
'Since the onset of the Sudan crisis, Qatar has supported mediation efforts and remains committed to aid delivery. We hope for a swift return to peace and stability in Sudan,' he added.
Dr Al Ansari said, 'Diplomacy remains the only path out of these crises. We continue to engage with regional and international partners to halt escalation and preserve stability. Although recent attacks disrupted promising progress between Iran and the US, as well as between Hamas and Israel, Qatar remains steadfast in mediating for peace and calm in the region.'
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