Qatari Minister Says ‘Regional Countries Are Not an Enemy of Iran’

In an increasingly tense Middle East environment dominated by the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran, Qatar’s government has issued strong diplomatic signals aimed at de‑escalation. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz al‑Khulaifi, Qatar’s minister of state for foreign affairs, stated that “regional countries are not an enemy of Iran” and urged Tehran and Washington alike to pursue negotiations instead of continued hostilities — a message that reflects Doha’s cautious but proactive diplomatic stance amid spiraling violence.
Al‑Khulaifi gave the comments in an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, underscoring Qatar’s deep concern over attacks that have affected multiple Gulf states since the conflict escalated. The minister emphasized that the current hostilities “benefit no one” and warned that continued military exchanges will only deepen the crisis across the region. He called for an immediate reduction in violence and a return to diplomatic channels, insisting that sustainable peace can only come through dialogue rather than force.
Qatar — historically a key proponent of mediation in Middle Eastern conflicts — has long positioned itself as a neutral actor capable of bridging gaps between rival states. Prior to the outbreak of intense fighting, Doha had played a role in facilitating communications between Tehran and Western capitals, including the United States. However, al‑Khulaifi noted that Qatar and neighbouring Oman cannot continue to act as mediators while under direct attack by Iran, pointing out that the Gulf states’ security must be ensured before they can meaningfully serve as intermediaries.
“The regional countries are not an enemy of Iran, and the Iranians are not understanding that idea,” al‑Khulaifi said, echoing a broader Gulf concern that the conflict’s expansion will drag neighbouring nations into a wider and more destructive confrontation. He stressed that Iran’s recent strikes against Gulf territories — including missile and drone attacks — undermine diplomatic trust and complicate efforts to reduce tensions.
Qatar’s remarks have been coupled with strong condemnations of attacks on its own infrastructure. Doha has denounced recent Iranian strikes as violations of its sovereignty, and foreign ministry officials have reiterated the country’s right to defend itself under international law. These incidents have heightened Doha’s fears that regional hostilities could destabilize both security and economic stability, particularly given the strategic importance of the Gulf’s energy sector.
The minister also highlighted concerns about the Strait of Hormuz, the crucial chokepoint for global oil and gas flows. Al‑Khulaifi warned that disruptions in this corridor, as a result of military actions, could have catastrophic economic consequences beyond the Middle East, affecting global supply chains and energy markets. “Freedom of movement through the waterway is very critical,” he noted, emphasizing the far‑reaching implications of the conflict.
In explaining Doha’s diplomatic strategy, al‑Khulaifi made clear that while Qatar seeks peaceful resolutions, it also remains in close communication with the United States. He said that Doha has encouraged Washington to pursue peace and to consider a return to negotiations with Tehran. “Our line of communication is always open with our colleagues in the United States,” he said, emphasizing the importance of sustained dialogue between all parties to halt further escalation.
Qatar’s appeal for de‑escalation comes amidst a broader regional backdrop of concern. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, have all warned about the risks of the conflict spreading beyond its current theaters. Some leaders have reiterated that military action cannot be the basis for long‑term peace and have called for diplomacy as the only viable path forward.
While Doha’s diplomatic messaging has been consistent, analysts note that the situation on the ground remains volatile. Iran’s retaliatory strikes, following U.S. and Israeli operations, have continued to impact civilian infrastructure and key security targets in Gulf states. This has raised questions about whether diplomatic efforts can gain traction while active hostilities persist.
In response to these pressures, Qatar has sought to strengthen its diplomatic posture by reaffirming its commitment to peace and underscoring that its stance is not adversarial toward Iran. Rather, Doha’s message is rooted in regional stability: Gulf states do not seek confrontation, and existing tensions must be resolved through dialogue.
As the conflict evolves, Qatar’s statements reflect a nuanced attempt to balance national security concerns with broader calls for peace, reinforcing that enduring stability in the Middle East depends on communication, negotiation, and mutual understanding among all stakeholders.