By Micah Jonah, March 11, 2026
Qatar has called for an urgent de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East as the conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel continues to intensify across the region.
Speaking in an interview, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz al-Khulaifi said Iran’s missile and drone attacks on neighbouring Gulf countries would benefit no one and warned that the situation could further destabilize the region.
Al-Khulaifi emphasized that the only sustainable solution to the crisis is a return to negotiations between Tehran and Washington, urging both sides to resume diplomatic engagement.
Iran has launched missiles and drones toward several Gulf states following weeks of bombardment linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel. The attacks have caused casualties, damaged infrastructure and disrupted economic activities across energy dependent Gulf economies.
Qatar strongly condemned the attacks targeting its territory, describing them as violations of its sovereignty. According to Al-Khulaifi, Doha will take all legal and necessary measures to defend itself against further aggression.
The Minister also warned that the conflict threatens global energy flows, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime passages for oil and gas exports.
Al-Khulaifi noted that countries such as Qatar and Oman have historically served as mediators between Iran and Western powers, but ongoing attacks make it impossible for them to continue playing that role.
He said regional countries should not be viewed as enemies by Iran and stressed that diplomatic engagement remains the only viable path to restoring stability in the Middle East.
Qatar also confirmed that communication channels remain open with the United States and that it has urged Donald Trump to help bring the conflict to an end through peaceful negotiations.
