Qatar has called for diplomatic talks rather than sanctions to ease ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majid Ansari said at a press conference that recent US sanctions were unilateral and that dialogue was the only route to a lasting resolution. Qatar is also acting as a mediator alongside Pakistan and other regional countries.

Ansari said the sanctions were not imposed under a decision by the United Nations or any multilateral institution, and said those who imposed them should answer questions over their justification. He urged all parties to participate actively in the ongoing mediation efforts, saying dialogue offered an effective way out of the crisis.

On the Strait of Hormuz, Ansari said an Iranian move to close the waterway would not be consistent with internationally recognized freedom of navigation. He said Qatar’s armed forces were prepared to respond to threats, while stressing the importance of normal shipping, resumed exports, global food and energy security, and functioning international supply chains. The source also reported Iranian attacks on Qatar’s gas facilities and the US Al-Udeid military base, alongside Iran’s claims over downed aircraft and detained pilots.