Qatar Urges Diplomatic Resolution Between the U.S. and Iran

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, has reiterated the necessity of a peaceful agreement between the United States and Iran, stressing that Qatar firmly opposes any military escalation in the region.

“Qatar will never endorse military action in this region. We remain committed to pursuing a diplomatic resolution between the U.S. and Iran and will not stop until an agreement is reached,” Al-Thani stated in an interview with Al Jazeera.

His comments came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump hinted on Friday at the possibility of a "peace agreement" with Tehran.

During a televised discussion with journalist Tucker Carlson, Al-Thani voiced concerns about potential military strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. He emphasized that maintaining stable relations with Iran is crucial for regional security, saying, “Iran is our neighbor, and fostering positive ties with all our neighbors is essential. A stable relationship with Iran benefits the entire region.”

The Qatari leader also highlighted significant advancements in relations between Iran and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations in recent years. While acknowledging certain policy differences, he stressed that these differences have not damaged diplomatic relations with Gulf states.

Meanwhile, President Trump remarked on Friday that "interesting developments" were ahead in U.S.-Iran relations. He suggested that Washington would either negotiate a revised nuclear agreement with Tehran or consider alternative measures—an apparent reference to military intervention.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi, however, dismissed direct talks with the U.S., stating that Tehran would not engage in negotiations as long as Washington continues its “maximum pressure” campaign and threats.

Qatar’s Role in Gaza Ceasefire Negotiations

Discussing Qatar’s role in mediating a ceasefire in Gaza, Al-Thani emphasized that Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani had consistently placed humanitarian concerns at the forefront.

“If we can save even one life, then all efforts are worthwhile,” he remarked.

He acknowledged that Qatar had faced relentless criticism throughout the 15-month-long conflict in Gaza.

“For over a year, we have endured intense scrutiny and accusations regarding our role in Gaza. The level of criticism has been overwhelming, but we have remained steadfast,” he said.

Despite these challenges, he underlined Qatar’s unwavering commitment to peace efforts. He noted that witnessing celebrations in both Gaza and Israel after the ceasefire announcement reaffirmed the importance of their mediation efforts.

Al-Thani credited the success of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement to coordinated efforts between Qatar, the U.S., and other international partners. He specifically acknowledged U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff for his instrumental role in advancing the negotiations.

The ceasefire, which took effect on January 19, brought a halt to Israel’s military operations in Gaza. The conflict had resulted in over 48,400 Palestinian deaths—many of them women and children—while leaving vast areas in ruins.

In November, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the Gaza conflict. Additionally, Israel is currently facing genocide allegations at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over its military actions in the territory.