Qatar’s Foreign Ministry: We categorically deny allegations circulating regarding the detention of Iranian pilots - Sarmad

The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs firmly denied allegations circulating about the detention of Iranian pilots, expressing surprise at these misleading statements at this specific time, amid ongoing diplomatic efforts and initiatives aimed at de-escalating tensions in the region.

The spokesperson for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Majid bin Mohammed Al-Ansari, confirmed that contact was established with the pilots in question after they violated Qatari airspace and confirmed the targeting trajectory. Following the application of rules of engagement and attempts to communicate with them without receiving a response, necessary measures were taken to defend our territory in accordance with international law, as was clarified at the time through official channels.

In this context, he noted that the Qatari search and rescue teams, which possess global competence and expertise, fulfilled their duties to the fullest extent in searching for the pilots’ remains. Qatar has maintained contact with the Iranian side to coordinate the handover of the remains of one of the pilots, who was found in accordance with applicable provisions of international humanitarian law. Additionally, an invitation was extended to send a team to inspect the details of the search and rescue operations conducted last April, but the Iranian side has not yet responded.