Qatar Urges Calm, Diplomatic Efforts in Call with Iranian FM

(MENAFN) Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who also serves as Qatar’s foreign minister, called for renewed de-escalation efforts during a phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Saturday, according to Qatar’s Foreign Ministry.

Doha reiterated its backing for ongoing diplomatic initiatives aimed at reaching a comprehensive settlement to the dispute involving the United States and Iran.

The Qatari premier emphasized the importance of constructive engagement from all sides in mediation efforts, stressing that dialogue remains essential for achieving long-term regional stability.

He also underscored that “freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle that is not open to compromise,” warning that any attempt to close the Strait of Hormuz or use it as leverage would only intensify tensions and threaten the interests of regional states.

Furthermore, he urged adherence to international law and good-neighbourly principles, calling on all parties to prioritize regional populations’ welfare.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions following earlier military escalations between the United States and Israel against Iran earlier in the year, which triggered retaliatory strikes and disruptions in regional maritime routes.

Although a ceasefire was introduced in April through Pakistani mediation, subsequent talks in Islamabad failed to produce a lasting agreement, while the truce was later extended indefinitely by US President Donald Trump.

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