Doha: Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari stated that US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner's recent visit to Doha is part of ongoing discussions with mediators in Qatar. These meetings aim to address regional issues, including negotiations with Iran and the Lebanese situation.
According to Qatar News Agency, Dr. Al Ansari emphasized that no high-level meetings are currently taking place between the Iranian and American parties, as per the agreed negotiation mechanism. During a weekly press briefing, he highlighted that technical meetings have been ongoing, directly and indirectly, since the Lausanne talks, with Qatar committed to maintaining this mechanism.
Dr. Al Ansari explained that these technical discussions involve mediators to ensure continuity and are being held in various contexts, both in Doha and elsewhere. Despite recent tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, he assured that technical negotiations persist, stressing that Qatar is actively working to contain the situation and uphold freedom of navigation in the strait.
He also addressed the matter of frozen Iranian funds, which are tied to a 2023 agreement between the United States and Iran, aimed at establishing a humanitarian channel in Qatar. These funds are intended for humanitarian purchases for Iran, with Qatar acting as the financial intermediary. The transfer of funds depends on the agreement's progress, which remains pending.
On the issue of regional security, Dr. Al Ansari reiterated Qatar's adherence to international maritime law, supporting freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized Qatar's ongoing coordination with regional countries, including Oman, to ensure safe passage through the strait.
Regarding the current conflict, he highlighted the importance of ending the war and restoring normalcy to the Strait of Hormuz. The clearing of mines and ensuring crew safety are current priorities, with Qatar welcoming international technical contributions to aid these efforts.
Dr. Al Ansari expressed Qatar's appreciation for Oman's role in regional security and affirmed solidarity against any breaches of Omani sovereignty. He underlined Qatar's belief in resolving regional differences through dialogue, stressing ongoing discussions with various partners to strengthen regional security and stability.
He concluded by emphasizing that the path to restoring pre-war regional stability lies in dialogue and addressing security concerns, a principle central to Qatar's foreign policy. He noted Qatar's resilience in the face of sovereignty violations and affirmed that the door remains open for negotiations and peace efforts.