Qatar publicly criticized Iran for the first time, joining other Gulf states in condemning Tehran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz, a notable diplomatic shift as Iran faces growing international pressure.
Qatar's Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman condemned what he called "maritime extortion and piracy" involving disruptions to shipping traffic through the strategic waterway, a vital route for global energy supplies. The statement follows Trump's announcement of a new phase in U.S. efforts against Iran, including what he described as complete economic strangulation of the Iranian economy, and the UAE's recent decision to sever all commercial ties with Tehran.
Sheikh Mohammed demanded that maritime traffic return to open shipping with no conditions, quotas, or restrictions from any party or state. He noted that other nations, particularly Oman, which Iran had approached as a potential partner in controlling access to Hormuz, have taken the same position.
Qatar said it would keep trying to mediate between Iran and the U.S., but made clear it expects unrestricted navigation through the Persian Gulf waterway.
