Latest news with #Iran-Qatar
Memri
24-06-2025
- Politics
- Memri
Iran And Qatar Are Allies – And The Coordinated Bombing Of The CENTCOM Base In Qatar Proves It
Introduction Iran's bombing of CENTCOM's Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar created confusion in Western circles regarding Iran-Qatar relations. It should be emphasized that it is no accident that Iran chose to attack the U.S. in Qatar, of all places. This is because Iran and Qatar are allies and could coordinate the bombing such that it would cause no loss of life or significant damage. Additionally, Qatar's consent to the operation does not endanger Iran with a Qatari response – in contrast to what would happen if a U.S. base were to be attacked in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, or Jordan. Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Aal Thani and Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in Tehran, from Khamenei's website, February 19, 2025. Below is Iran's reasoning for attacking the CENTCOM base in Qatar: Iran: Qatar Is A "Sister" And A "Friend" The bombing of the U.S. airbase in Qatar was, according to Iran, against the U.S., and Iran is emphasizing that Qatar is a "sister" state and a "friend" and has historic ties to Iran. The operation, say the Iranian regime mouthpieces, poses no threat to "our friendly neighbor" Qatar, and they add that Iran remains committed to preserving and continuing its historically warm relationship with Qatar. Thus, for example, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei explained in a post on X that Iran's attack on the American Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar constituted "self defense." He wrote: "Iran's military strikes on American military base 'Al-Udeid' was in exercise of our self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter in response to the United States' unprovoked aggression against Iran's territorial integrity and national sovereignty that took place on 22 June 2025. "This act of self-defense had nothing to do with our friendly neighbour Qatar as we enjoy excellent and deeply rooted relationships. "Iran remains fully committed to its good-neighbourliness policy with respect to the State of Qatar and other neighboring countries. "We resolve not to let U.S./Israeli criminal aggressions and malign policies against Iran create division between us and the brotherly countries of the region."[1] June 24, 2024
Asharq Al-Awsat
20-02-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Qatar, Iran Agree to Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation
Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have agreed to expand bilateral cooperation, stressing their shared commitment to regional stability and prosperity. During a joint press conference at Saadabad Palace in Tehran, Pezeshkian stated that frequent exchanges between officials from both countries reflect strong historical, economic, and cultural ties, as well as aligned perspectives on regional and international issues. Pezeshkian stated that his talks with Sheikh Tamim covered 'current regional developments' and reaffirmed their commitment to Syria's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and the right of the Syrian people to determine their own future. He further stressed Iran's belief that regional countries can contribute to stability and security through good neighborly relations, mutual respect, and constructive cooperation. He called for the establishment of a joint framework to enhance regional collaboration. Sheikh Tamim expressed his satisfaction with his visit to Iran, emphasizing the importance of strengthening historical ties based on good neighborly relations. He underscored the need to expand cooperation, particularly in trade and economic sectors, and reaffirmed Qatar's support for initiatives that promote regional stability and prosperity. According to the Qatar News Agency, the discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations, particularly in the fields of economy, trade, and energy. Both sides explored investment opportunities and exchanged views on key regional and international developments. The Palestinian issue was also a key topic of discussion. Sheikh Tamim reiterated the importance of maintaining a ceasefire in Gaza and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid. He expressed hope that the ceasefire would lead to an end to civilian suffering and pave the way for a just and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian crisis. Later, during a meeting with Sheikh Tamim, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei reaffirmed Tehran's commitment to strengthening ties with neighboring countries. He voiced hope that the agreements signed between Iran and Qatar would serve the interests of both nations and called for stronger regional cooperation and increased economic exchanges between Tehran and Doha. Khamenei described Qatar as a 'brotherly and friendly nation' but pointed out unresolved issues, particularly concerning Iranian funds transferred from South Korea to Qatar. He claimed that US pressure was the main obstacle to implementing the related agreement. 'If we were in Qatar's position, we would not have yielded to such pressure,' he said, adding that Iran still expects Qatar to take decisive action on the matter. Sheikh Tamim acknowledged the complex and challenging conditions in the region, pointing to the need for stronger cooperation among regional countries. He announced that the Iran-Qatar joint committee would soon commence its work, predicting a significant increase in economic exchanges between the two nations in the near future.
