Qatar firmly denied reports claiming it offered Iran $12 billion to secure a political agreement or secret deal. Qatari officials described the allegations as false and part of a disinformation campaign targeting Doha’s diplomatic role. The controversy emerged amid ongoing regional tensions and sensitive negotiations involving Iran and Western powers.
Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majid Al-Ansari said accusations regarding payments or secret agreements were “completely baseless.” In statements shared on social media, he accused certain parties of attempting to sabotage diplomatic efforts coordinated by Qatar and regional partners. He stressed that Qatar’s mediation role remains transparent and internationally recognised.
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Al-Ansari also said the allegations aimed to damage Qatar’s reputation as a trusted and impartial mediator in regional conflicts. He reaffirmed Doha’s commitment to quiet diplomacy and efforts to reduce tensions across the Middle East. Qatar has played key mediation roles in several recent regional disputes and negotiations involving Iran and the United States.
The denials came after Iranian media reported that Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf visited Doha alongside Iran’s foreign minister and central bank governor. According to reports, discussions focused on releasing frozen Iranian assets held abroad. Iranian sources suggested the issue formed part of a broader memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Doha.
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The debate also unfolded amid renewed attention on US policy toward Iran under Donald Trump. Trump has criticised previous nuclear agreements with Tehran, arguing they provided Iran with financial resources and strategic advantages. Analysts believe frozen Iranian assets and regional diplomacy will remain central issues in future negotiations involving Tehran and Western powers.