DOHA: Qatar’s Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, spoke out on Tuesday, urging Iran not to use the strategically important Strait of Hormuz to pressure Gulf nations. Since the outbreak of the Middle East conflict, Iran has blocked this critical shipping route.
During a press conference in Doha with Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Al Thani emphasized, “Iran should not wield this strait as a tool of intimidation against Gulf countries.” Fidan echoed these sentiments, asserting that the strait must not be utilized as a “weapon.”
Gulf nations have faced the brunt of Iranian actions during the ongoing war, with Tehran targeting not only U.S. interests but also civilian areas, including airports and energy facilities. The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a passage for about 20% of the world’s oil and natural gas, has severely impacted maritime trade, putting additional stress on the economies of the Gulf states.
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted Qatar’s increasing involvement in diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, noting a recent trip to the United States aimed at supporting these mediation efforts. “The visit was primarily about reinforcing our support for Pakistani diplomatic initiatives to achieve a swift and positive resolution to the situation,” he stated.
Fidan mentioned that Ankara is in close dialogue with Qatar and other Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait, especially in relation to ongoing peace negotiations.
