Qatar strongly condemns Israeli attack on Iran, urges calm, diplomatic resolution to prevent regional escalation
DOHA: The State of Qatar has issued a firm condemnation of the recent Israeli strike against the Islamic Republic of Iran, denouncing the attack and the subsequent dangerous escalation across the region. Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Majed Mohammed Al Ansari emphasized Qatar's deep concern about the deteriorating security situation, calling for urgent efforts to restore calm and prevent the region from sliding into further conflict.
'This reckless escalation is yet another episode in a continuous cycle of tensions, despite the fact that all countries in the region are working towards peaceful solutions and efforts to de-escalate,' Dr Al Ansari said. 'However, there is one player in the region determined to escalate tensions and thwart all peace efforts. We stress that the regional security framework cannot withstand further shocks and escalation.'
Highlighting the fragile state of affairs, Dr Al Ansari warned that 'the current reckless pursuit of escalation has a very negative impact on regional security, which is already under immense strain from multiple crises.' He called attention to ongoing diplomatic progress, noting that 'for the first time in over seven years, negotiations between Iran and the United States were moving in a positive direction.'
He credited Qatar and regional partners, notably the Sultanate of Oman, for supporting ongoing dialogue aimed at easing tensions.
'Qatar's communications continue—not only with the two sides but also with all relevant parties, including the United States and international organizations—with the goal of reaching a calm that spares the region from the dangers of an unpredictable war,' Dr Al Ansari stated.
Expressing grave concern over attacks on critical infrastructure, he said, 'We strongly condemn the reckless targeting of nuclear and energy facilities in the Gulf. This is an irresponsible act with serious repercussions for global energy markets and regional stability.'
The Gulf region remains vital to the world's energy supply, with nearly 30 percent of global oil exports and 25 percent of natural gas exports passing through the Gulf waters and the Strait of Hormuz.Reassuring the public on Qatar's readiness, Dr Al Ansari confirmed that 'the Ministry of Municipality has reported no environmental pollution to date, and maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz continues uninterrupted.'
He stressed that Qatar is closely monitoring the situation daily to ensure the safety of both waters and navigation.
On the diplomatic front, Qatar maintains 'daily communications with all relevant parties,' including direct contacts with Iranian President and Foreign Minister, alongside other regional actors. 'Many countries, including Qatar, are exerting continuous efforts to de-escalate and avoid the disastrous consequences of this dangerous escalation following Israel's attack.'
Dr Al Ansari noted that 'the Islamic Republic of Iran's position is clear: negotiations will only begin once the aggression subsides.' Qatar is working closely with parties aligned with this view to achieve a peaceful resolution.
Regarding broader regional tensions, he reaffirmed Qatar's ongoing mediation efforts in the Gaza Strip, warning that 'the escalation between Iran and Israel delays critical breakthroughs on key humanitarian and political issues in Gaza.'
He called for 'an immediate end to violence and a return to peace efforts in all areas, including Iran-US relations and Gaza.'
Focusing on energy security, Dr Al Ansari highlighted the strategic importance of the Pars gas field, operated by multinational companies from Europe, America, and China. 'While Qatar's North Field remains secure and production stable, reckless targeting on the Iranian side of the field is cause for concern for the entire global energy supply chain.'
He emphasized that Gulf security is inseparable from energy security, a position shared by the United States.
Confirming that the United States is not a direct party to the current conflict, Dr Al Ansari said, 'We have been actively supporting mediation between Iran and the US. Despite setbacks, the US remains interested in reaching a diplomatic agreement, and Qatar continues to pursue de-escalation through ongoing contacts.'
Addressing safety concerns for Qatar's international operations, he reassured, 'Our sites, especially those in Africa, are secure with no immediate threats. However, given the volatile regional situation, vigilance is required. The safety of over 10,000 international workers and clients at these sites is paramount, and we call on the international community to condemn any threats against them.'
Qatar has developed 'comprehensive contingency plans covering all potential scenarios — from energy security to citizen protection — and remains in a state of readiness proven over past regional crises.' Dr Al Ansari cautioned that while the current situation is stable, 'continued escalation could trigger unpredictable consequences.'
On humanitarian issues, he voiced deep concern about Gaza's worsening conditions: 'The suspension of aid since March, combined with daily civilian casualties, is unacceptable. The only viable solution is the immediate lifting of restrictions to allow humanitarian aid to flow unimpeded. Pressure must be applied to open crossings and empower international institutions. Any delay is a crime against humanity.'
Qatar maintains close cooperation with the International Energy Agency, continuously monitoring the Gulf waters. Dr. Al-Ansari stressed that 'no pollution has been detected and navigation remains robust,' yet he warned that 'the targeting of energy infrastructure is unacceptable and risks severe repercussions.'
Finally, on Sudan, Dr Al Ansari reaffirmed Qatar's consistent stance calling for peaceful solutions and humanitarian support. 'Since the onset of the Sudan crisis, Qatar has supported mediation efforts and remains committed to aid delivery. We hope for a swift return to peace and stability in Sudan.'
Closing his remarks, Dr Al Ansari expressed cautious optimism: 'Diplomacy remains the only path out of these crises. We continue to engage with regional and international partners to halt escalation and preserve stability. Although recent attacks disrupted promising progress between Iran and the US, as well as between Hamas and Israel, Qatar remains steadfast in mediating for peace and calm in the region.'
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Al Jazeera
3 hours ago
- Al Jazeera
Iran-Israel conflict raises alarm in Pakistan amid fears over own security
Islamabad, Pakistan – In January 2024, Pakistan and Iran fired missiles into each other's territory in a brief military escalation between the neighbours. Yet 17 months later, after Israel attacked Iran with strikes on the latter's nuclear facilities, and assassinated multiple Iranian generals and nuclear scientists, Pakistan was quick to condemn the Israeli action. Islamabad described the Israeli strikes as violations of Iran's territorial sovereignty and labelled them 'blatant provocations'. 'The international community and the United Nations bear responsibility to uphold international law, stop this aggression immediately and hold the aggressor accountable for its actions,' Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on June 13. As Israeli attacks on Iran, and Tehran's retaliatory strikes, enter their sixth day, the deepening conflict is sparking fears in Islamabad, say analysts, rooted in its complex ties with Tehran and the even greater unease at the prospect of the Israeli military's aerial influence extending close to the Pakistani border. The human toll from the spiralling Israel-Iran conflict is growing. Israel's attacks on Iran have already led to more than 220 deaths, with more than a thousand people injured. In retaliation, Iran has launched hundreds of missiles into Israeli territory, resulting in more than 20 deaths and extensive property damage. While Pakistan, which shares a 905km (562-mile) border with Iran via its southwestern province of Balochistan, has voiced staunch support for Tehran, it has also closed five border crossings in Balochistan from June 15. More than 500 Pakistani nationals, mainly pilgrims and students, have returned from Iran in recent days. 'On Monday, we had 45 students who were pursuing degrees in various Iranian institutions return to Pakistan. Almost 500 pilgrims also came back via the Taftan border crossing,' the assistant commissioner for Taftan, Naeem Ahmed, told Al Jazeera. Taftan is a border town neighbouring Iran, situated in the Chaghi district in Balochistan, which is famous for its hills where Pakistan conducted its nuclear tests in 1998, as well as the Reko Diq and Saindak mines known for their gold and copper deposits. At the heart of the decision to try to effectively seal the border is Pakistan's worry about security in Balochistan, which, in turn, is influenced by its ties with Iran, say experts. Pakistan and Iran have both accused each other of harbouring armed groups responsible for cross-border attacks on their territories. The most recent flare-up occurred in January 2024, when Iran launched missile strikes into Pakistan's Balochistan province, claiming to target the separatist group Jaish al-Adl. Pakistan retaliated within 24 hours, striking what it said were hideouts of Baloch separatists inside Iranian territory. The neighbours patched up after that brief escalation, and during Pakistan's brief military conflict with India in May, Iran studiously avoided taking sides. On Monday, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ishaq Dar addressed Parliament, emphasising how Pakistan had been speaking with Iran and suggesting that Islamabad was willing to play a diplomatic role to help broker an end to the military hostilities between Iran and Israel. 'Iran's foreign minister [Abbas Araghchi] told me that if Israel does not carry out another attack, they are prepared to return to the negotiating table,' Dar said. 'We have conveyed this message to other countries, that there is still time to stop Israel and bring Iran back to talks.'. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry told Al Jazeera that other nations needed to do more to push for a ceasefire. 'We believe we are playing our role, but the world must also do its duty. Syria, Libya, Iraq – wars devastated them. It even led to the rise of ISIS [ISIL]. We hope this is not repeated,' he added. Fahd Humayun, assistant professor of political science at Tufts University and a visiting research scholar at Stanford, said that any Pakistani bid to diplomatically push for peace would be helped by the fact that the administration of President Donald Trump in the United States is also, officially at least, arguing for negotiations rather than war. But Umer Karim, a Middle East researcher at the University of Birmingham, suggested that for all the public rhetoric, Pakistan would be cautious about enmeshing itself too deeply in the conflict at a time when it is trying to rebuild bridges with the US, Israel's closest ally. 'I doubt Pakistan has the capacity or the will to mediate in this conflict, but it definitely wants it to wind down as soon as possible,' he said. Pakistan's greatest concern, according to observers, is the potential fallout in Balochistan, a resource-rich but restive province. Rich in oil, gas, coal, gold and copper, Balochistan is Pakistan's largest province by area but smallest by population, home to about 15 million people. Since 1947, Balochistan has experienced at least five rebellion movements, the latest beginning in the early 2000s. Rebel groups have demanded a greater share of local resources or outright independence, prompting decades of military crackdowns. The province also hosts the strategic Gwadar port, central to the $62bn China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), linking western China to the Arabian Sea. Baloch nationalists accuse the state of exploiting resources while neglecting local development, heightening secessionist and separatist sentiments. Baloch secessionist groups on both sides of the border, particularly the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLA), have been waging a rebellion in Pakistan to seek independence. 'There is a major concern within Pakistan that in case the war escalates, members of armed groups such as BLA and BLF, many of whom live in Iran's border areas, might try and seek protection inside Pakistan by crossing the very porous boundaries shared by the two countries,' Abdul Basit, a research fellow at the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, told Al Jazeera. 'Thus, Pakistan had to shut down the crossing in an attempt to control the influx. It remains to be seen whether they can successfully do that, but at least this is their objective.' Since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, waves of Afghan refugees have sought shelter in Pakistan. The latest mass entry occurred after the Taliban took over Kabul in August 2021. At their peak, there were close to 4 million Afghans living in the country. In 2023, however, Pakistan launched a campaign to send the refugees back to Afghanistan. According to government estimates, close to a million of them have been expelled so far. Pakistan has cited rising incidents of armed violence in the country, which it blames on groups that it says find shelter in Afghanistan, as a key justification for its decision. The Taliban reject the suggestion that they allow anti-Pakistan armed groups sanctuary on Afghan territory. Basit said Pakistan would likely want to avoid any repeat of what happened with Afghan refugees. 'With such a long border [with Iran], and a history of deep connection between people of both sides, it is not out of realm of possibility that it was this factor which factored in Pakistan's decision to close the border,' he added. Baloch armed groups and the prospect of a refugee influx are not the only concerns likely worrying Pakistan, say experts. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that his air force has control over Tehran's skies. And while both Israel and Iran continue to strike each other's territory, Pakistan, which does not recognise Israel and views it as a sworn enemy, will not want Israeli influence over the Iranian airspace to grow and creep towards the Iran-Pakistan border. 'Pakistan is also averse to Israel achieving complete air superiority and control of Iranian airspace, as it would upend the current security status quo on Pakistan's western flank,' Karim, the University of Birmingham scholar, told Al Jazeera. Security analyst Ihsanullah Tipu Mehsud, based in Islamabad, noted that Pakistan has historically sided with the US in regional wars, including in Afghanistan, but may hesitate this time. A majority Sunni nation, Pakistan still boasts a significant Shia population – more than 15 percent of its population of 250 million. 'Pakistan has already dealt with sectarian issues, and openly supporting military action against [Shia-majority] Iran could spark serious blowback,' he said.
Qatar Tribune
6 hours ago
- Qatar Tribune
Qatar strongly condemns Israeli attack on Iran, urges calm, diplomatic resolution to prevent regional escalation
DOHA: The State of Qatar has issued a firm condemnation of the recent Israeli strike against the Islamic Republic of Iran, denouncing the attack and the subsequent dangerous escalation across the region. Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Majed Mohammed Al Ansari emphasized Qatar's deep concern about the deteriorating security situation, calling for urgent efforts to restore calm and prevent the region from sliding into further conflict. 'This reckless escalation is yet another episode in a continuous cycle of tensions, despite the fact that all countries in the region are working towards peaceful solutions and efforts to de-escalate,' Dr Al Ansari said. 'However, there is one player in the region determined to escalate tensions and thwart all peace efforts. We stress that the regional security framework cannot withstand further shocks and escalation.' Highlighting the fragile state of affairs, Dr Al Ansari warned that 'the current reckless pursuit of escalation has a very negative impact on regional security, which is already under immense strain from multiple crises.' He called attention to ongoing diplomatic progress, noting that 'for the first time in over seven years, negotiations between Iran and the United States were moving in a positive direction.' He credited Qatar and regional partners, notably the Sultanate of Oman, for supporting ongoing dialogue aimed at easing tensions. 'Qatar's communications continue—not only with the two sides but also with all relevant parties, including the United States and international organizations—with the goal of reaching a calm that spares the region from the dangers of an unpredictable war,' Dr Al Ansari stated. Expressing grave concern over attacks on critical infrastructure, he said, 'We strongly condemn the reckless targeting of nuclear and energy facilities in the Gulf. This is an irresponsible act with serious repercussions for global energy markets and regional stability.' The Gulf region remains vital to the world's energy supply, with nearly 30 percent of global oil exports and 25 percent of natural gas exports passing through the Gulf waters and the Strait of the public on Qatar's readiness, Dr Al Ansari confirmed that 'the Ministry of Municipality has reported no environmental pollution to date, and maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz continues uninterrupted.' He stressed that Qatar is closely monitoring the situation daily to ensure the safety of both waters and navigation. On the diplomatic front, Qatar maintains 'daily communications with all relevant parties,' including direct contacts with Iranian President and Foreign Minister, alongside other regional actors. 'Many countries, including Qatar, are exerting continuous efforts to de-escalate and avoid the disastrous consequences of this dangerous escalation following Israel's attack.' Dr Al Ansari noted that 'the Islamic Republic of Iran's position is clear: negotiations will only begin once the aggression subsides.' Qatar is working closely with parties aligned with this view to achieve a peaceful resolution. Regarding broader regional tensions, he reaffirmed Qatar's ongoing mediation efforts in the Gaza Strip, warning that 'the escalation between Iran and Israel delays critical breakthroughs on key humanitarian and political issues in Gaza.' He called for 'an immediate end to violence and a return to peace efforts in all areas, including Iran-US relations and Gaza.' Focusing on energy security, Dr Al Ansari highlighted the strategic importance of the Pars gas field, operated by multinational companies from Europe, America, and China. 'While Qatar's North Field remains secure and production stable, reckless targeting on the Iranian side of the field is cause for concern for the entire global energy supply chain.' He emphasized that Gulf security is inseparable from energy security, a position shared by the United States. Confirming that the United States is not a direct party to the current conflict, Dr Al Ansari said, 'We have been actively supporting mediation between Iran and the US. Despite setbacks, the US remains interested in reaching a diplomatic agreement, and Qatar continues to pursue de-escalation through ongoing contacts.' Addressing safety concerns for Qatar's international operations, he reassured, 'Our sites, especially those in Africa, are secure with no immediate threats. However, given the volatile regional situation, vigilance is required. The safety of over 10,000 international workers and clients at these sites is paramount, and we call on the international community to condemn any threats against them.' Qatar has developed 'comprehensive contingency plans covering all potential scenarios — from energy security to citizen protection — and remains in a state of readiness proven over past regional crises.' Dr Al Ansari cautioned that while the current situation is stable, 'continued escalation could trigger unpredictable consequences.' On humanitarian issues, he voiced deep concern about Gaza's worsening conditions: 'The suspension of aid since March, combined with daily civilian casualties, is unacceptable. The only viable solution is the immediate lifting of restrictions to allow humanitarian aid to flow unimpeded. Pressure must be applied to open crossings and empower international institutions. Any delay is a crime against humanity.' Qatar maintains close cooperation with the International Energy Agency, continuously monitoring the Gulf waters. Dr. Al-Ansari stressed that 'no pollution has been detected and navigation remains robust,' yet he warned that 'the targeting of energy infrastructure is unacceptable and risks severe repercussions.' Finally, on Sudan, Dr Al Ansari reaffirmed Qatar's consistent stance calling for peaceful solutions and humanitarian support. 'Since the onset of the Sudan crisis, Qatar has supported mediation efforts and remains committed to aid delivery. We hope for a swift return to peace and stability in Sudan.' Closing his remarks, Dr Al Ansari expressed cautious optimism: 'Diplomacy remains the only path out of these crises. We continue to engage with regional and international partners to halt escalation and preserve stability. Although recent attacks disrupted promising progress between Iran and the US, as well as between Hamas and Israel, Qatar remains steadfast in mediating for peace and calm in the region.'
Qatar Tribune
10 hours ago
- Qatar Tribune
Khulaifi, IAEA director-general discuss Israeli attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities
QNA Doha Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE Dr Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi held a phone call with Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Mariano Grossi on Tuesday. During the call, they discussed the latest developments related to the recent Israeli attacks on nuclear facilities in Iran, as well as means to enhance the security of nuclear installations and ensure they are not exposed to any threats that could undermine regional and international security. The Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed out that targeting nuclear facilities constitutes a serious threat to regional and international peace and security, stressing that Qatar is making strenuous efforts with its partners to return all parties to the path of dialogue to address outstanding issues and consolidate security and peace in the region and the world. He reiterated the State of Qatar's strong condemnation of the Israeli attack on Iranian territory, describing it as a blatant violation of Iran's sovereignty and security, and a clear breach of the rules and principles of international law.
