Doha: Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari affirmed that the State of Qatar continues its full support for the efforts led by the Islamic Republic of Pakistan aimed at reaching an agreement that prevents a return to escalation, stressing that it is not possible at present to predict the results of the ongoing contacts and efforts, in light of the diplomatic activity in the region.
According to Qatar News Agency, during the Ministry's weekly media briefing, Dr. Al Ansari said that HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, along with a number of Qatari officials are continuing their intensive contacts with their counterparts in the region and the world. The aim is to ensure the continuation of the ceasefire, prevent a return to escalation, and secure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, to spare the peoples of the region the repercussions of any new escalation.
Regarding the nature of the contacts that took place during the past period, he indicated that the contacts focused mainly on ensuring the continuation of the ceasefire and sparing the people the risks of any further escalation. Supporting the Pakistani mediation efforts is a priority at the present stage, as it is the entity that conducts official communications between the parties.
Dr. Al Ansari further addressed the statement issued by HE President of the United States of America Donald Trump, noting that regional leaders have emphasized the need to maintain calm and give diplomacy a full opportunity to reach an agreement that guarantees the region's security and stability. He highlighted that Qatar has long warned that continued escalation without sustainable peace could lead to a comprehensive war affecting the region and the world.
The Advisor also commented on the decision to postpone the American attack on Iran, highlighting Qatar's cooperation with its partners in the United States and its commitment to protecting the region's people from war repercussions. He reiterated the regional leaders' unanimous support for Pakistani mediation efforts, the ceasefire, and diplomatic avenues to reach a final agreement.
Regarding the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Dr. Al Ansari emphasized the right of transit passage through international straits as stipulated by international law. He noted that any attempt to close the strait or impose restrictions violates international law. Qatar is committed to reopening the strait to free navigation in compliance with international law.
He also addressed the impact on Qatar's supply chains and energy exports, noting that while basic commodities have been unaffected due to contingency plans, challenges remain in exporting energy products, which directly impact global energy security and prices.
Dr. Al Ansari confirmed that Qatari gas tankers Al Khairitiyat and Mahzam recently crossed the strait to Pakistan, emphasizing that this does not signify the reopening of the strait or normal gas tanker traffic. He stressed Qatar's support for Pakistani mediation and its monitoring of regional developments, noting the unpredictability of ongoing communications.
In rejecting attacks by Iran, Dr. Al Ansari reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to sovereignty and security. He expressed Qatar's desire for peace and prosperity for all peoples in the region, including Iran, and highlighted Qatar's positive relations with the Iranian people, despite the recent conflict targeting Qatar.
He concluded by emphasizing Qatar's continued support for diplomatic efforts and its participation in upcoming NATO meetings in Turkiye as part of its defense partnerships and cooperation with the Alliance.