Qatar urges swift end to Iran war, backs Saudi-led defence pact

Qatar warned that the Iran war is exacting a global price and pressed for an immediate end through negotiations between the United States and Iran. Ibrahim bin Sultan Ibrahim Al Hashmi of the foreign ministry said diplomatic contacts and visits are ongoing and invited an Iranian side visit to clarify Tehran’s position. The ministry also highlighted efforts to restore free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for Gulf exports.

While backing the Mecca defence alliance formed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, Al Hashmi said it is too early for Qatar to consider membership. The alliance was activated in Riyadh, pledging rapid deployment of forces to Saudi Arabia after recent Houthi attacks on holy sites. Additionally, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni in Doha to discuss regional developments, drug-trafficking cooperation, and the disputed detention of three Iranian pilots; Qatar denies holding them and says one pilot’s remains were recovered.