Qatar confirmed that negotiations between the United States and Iran are still ongoing, with messages being exchanged through Doha and its regional partners.
Meeting of Iran's Interior Minister with the Emir of Qatar
Iran's Interior Minister, Eskandar Momeni, met with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, on Tuesday at the Amiri Diwan in Doha. This meeting took place as the Qatari Foreign Ministry confirmed that mediation efforts between Iran and other parties are still ongoing. Momeni arrived in Doha on Monday, and further details of this visit will be released soon by Iran's Interior Ministry.
Emphasis on Continuing Negotiations
Ibrahim bin Sultan Al Hashimi, Director of Media and Communications at the Qatari Foreign Ministry, stated at a weekly press conference on Tuesday that communications and visits related to mediation efforts "are ongoing and have not stopped." He described the goal of these efforts as "achieving progress upon which we can build" and added: "I cannot speak about technical issues, but negotiations are still ongoing and message exchanges are taking place. Qatar acts as a mediator between them and other relevant partners."
Al Hashimi also emphasized that negotiations remain the best solution for these disputes. He said: "The scale of this problem requires our best efforts through negotiable solutions at the negotiating table. We must consider the concerns of all parties."
Qatar's Support for Regional Initiatives
Regarding the proposed Mecca alliance, Al Hashimi announced that Qatar supports regional initiatives that contribute to strengthening security and stability. He stated: "We emphasize that the State of Qatar supports any initiative that regional countries undertake to maintain their security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, including the Mecca alliance." He added that this alliance "strengthens regional cooperation that helps preserve resources and stability in the region's countries."
Support for Saudi Arabia and Condemnation of Houthi Attacks
Al Hashimi also confirmed Qatar's support for Saudi Arabia and condemned the Houthi attacks on the country. He said: "We support our sister Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in all actions it takes to maintain its security and territorial integrity." He further added: "At the same time, we condemn the irresponsible approach of the Houthi group in targeting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Islamic holy sites, and civilian targets."
