Qatar Issues Rare Strong Statement Against Iran Over Strait of Hormuz Tensions

Following U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of a new phase in the economic campaign against Iran and the United Arab Emirates' decision to sever all trade ties with Tehran, Qatar has also voiced sharp criticism of Iran. Qatar's Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani condemned what he described as "maritime extortion" by Iran, referring to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz that threaten the natural resource flow in the Gulf. He called for the restoration of unrestricted maritime traffic in the strait without any conditions, tariffs, or limitations imposed by any party or country. Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that other nations, particularly Oman, which Iran has identified as a potential partner in controlling the strait, share this stance. Despite the strong language, Qatar intends to continue mediating between Iran and the United States to resolve the conflict, emphasizing the necessity of returning to free navigation in the Persian Gulf.