(Qatari Foreign Ministry): Dialogue is the Only Way to Reach a Sustainable Solution to the Crisis Between Washington and Tehran

Doha, October 20 (KUNA) — Ibrahim Al-Hajiri, Director of the Media and Communications Department at Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, affirmed on Tuesday that communications, visits, and the exchange of messages as part of mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran have not ceased. He stressed that reaching a sustainable and immediate resolution to the crisis can only be achieved through dialogue, which is the sole means of settling it.

During the weekly press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Al-Hajiri emphasized the need to expedite a solution that spares the region, the world, the global economy, and energy supplies from the costs of the escalation currently underway.

Addressing threats to target internet cables in the Strait of Hormuz, he noted that the peoples of the region, including the Iranian people, would be the greatest victims of such actions. He questioned, “Which party would suffer more if a mine detonates in the strait, if an oil spill occurs from a ship, or if internet cables are cut?”

He pointed out that the United States is separated from the strait by vast distances and that Israel does not benefit from the waters of the Gulf. He stressed that the greatest harm would fall on the countries of the region, including Iran.

Al-Hajiri stated that security in the Strait of Hormuz is an integral part of the water security of the region and its peoples, noting that regional countries rely on these waters for desalination, navigation, and the security of fisheries and marine resources.

He placed responsibility on the Iranian side to preserve water security, avoid targeting it, and comply with international laws concerning freedom of navigation and the protection of the marine environment. He stressed the necessity of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and halting all irresponsible attacks there, which primarily harm the peoples of the region and their assets before affecting any other party.

Regarding French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Qatar on Tuesday, Al-Hajiri said the visit reflects the depth of relations between the two countries, their development, and the building upon them. He noted that France holds positions that are commendable, whether in this crisis or others, and has always been a friend and ally of Qatar.

He clarified that the Qatari-French discussions to be held today and the strategic dialogue scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, present an opportunity to build on these relations and develop them across various fields, including energy, economy, investment, and defense. He highlighted the distinguished historical relations and fruitful cooperation between the two countries.

On diversifying partnerships and building defensive capabilities, Al-Hajiri said it is natural for Qatar to diversify its partnerships and continue building its defensive capabilities. This does not in any way conflict with its role as a mediator, nor is it linked solely to the current crisis. He added, “It is natural for every country in the region to be capable of deterrence and self-defense, and to build its capabilities while diversifying its allies and strategic partnerships in the field of building defensive capabilities.”

In the context of negotiations between the United States and Iran, he reiterated that Qatar, the countries of the region, and the entire world hope to reach a solution as soon as possible. He stressed the need for optimism and tireless efforts to achieve a resolution.

He emphasized that despair is unacceptable for a mediator, as is the belief that a military solution is a viable option. He affirmed that a peaceful solution is the only one that preserves the region and its stability. (End) S.S.S / N.S.A