CHAIRMAN: DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: PROF. KHALID MUBARAK AL-SHAFI

Views /Editorial

Dialogue, not escalation

Published: 18 Jun 2025 - 08:36 am | Last Updated: 20 Oct 2025 - 10:52 am

AS tensions flare in the Middle East, this time following Israel’s strike on Iranian territory, Qatar has stepped forward as a voice of restraint and diplomacy. In a recent press conference, Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari, reaffirmed Qatar’s readiness to deal with any fallout, while urging a return to dialogue over confrontation.

"Qatar is fully prepared for all possible scenarios that might result from the ongoing escalation between Israel and Iran," Dr. Al Ansari stated. Drawing on its past experience in navigating regional crises, he emphasised Qatar’s enduring commitment to stability, peace, and constructive engagement.

Despite the alarming developments, marine navigation and the export of oil and gas from the region remain unaffected, an indicator of the broader regional resilience. International companies continue their operations uninterrupted, even as the risk of further escalation looms.

However, reckless targeting of nuclear facilities, particularly in Iran, would mark an unprecedented and perilous development, with potentially catastrophic consequences for regional security and global energy markets. The possibility of such actions should alarm the international community.

Only weeks ago, diplomatic talks between the United States and Iran had shown signs of cautious progress, their first in seven years. Qatar, together with other regional players, had quietly facilitated these efforts. That momentum, however, was abruptly shattered by Israel’s latest strike on Iran undermining peace and stability of the region.

The Israeli  attacks and Irani counter attacks threaten to derail attempts to de-escalate other conflicts, especially Gaza, where people continue to suffer and a lack of food and other essentials is making it one of the worst catastrophes the world has seen.

Qatar has also reaffirmed that assaults against sovereign state represent a blatant violation of state sovereignty and international law, as well as a grave threat to global peace and security. The ongoing aggression in Gaza has inflicted unparalleled human suffering and demands urgent international action.

Qatar’s position remains principled and consistent: diplomacy must prevail. The region cannot endure another cycle of violence, especially one that risks igniting a broader confrontation. At this precarious moment, Qatar’s call for de-escalation and renewed dialogue offers not just a diplomatic stance, but a necessity for the region.