DOHA: Qatar has warned that any military escalation between the United States and Iran would have catastrophic consequences for the region. The statement came after Washington threatened strikes in response to Iran’s crackdown on nationwide protests. Qatar called for maximum restraint to avoid further conflict.
According to Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari, any escalation “would have catastrophic results in the region and beyond.” The warning follows heightened tensions after Iran targeted the U.S. Al Udeid military base in Qatar in June, retaliating against American strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
Read more: Iran says ‘prepared for war’ as alarm grows over protest toll
Meanwhile, mass protests in Iran since Thursday have challenged the clerical leadership. Rights groups report hundreds of deaths, though the exact toll remains uncertain due to an ongoing internet shutdown. Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, warned the U.S. that military and shipping targets would be considered legitimate for retaliation.
Despite rising tensions, diplomatic channels remain open. Al-Ansari said Qatar is engaging with regional neighbors and partners to seek a peaceful resolution. U.S. officials, including Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, have reportedly received a “far different tone” from Iran in private discussions.
Read more: Protests persist as Iran warns US, Israel of strikes if attacked
Finally, Qatar highlighted its role in mediating past conflicts, including the June attack on Al Udeid base, which helped deliver a temporary truce between Washington and Tehran. Doha stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remain essential to prevent a wider regional crisis.