DOHA, QATAR May 19, 2026 — Qatar’s Foreign Ministry has reiterated its call for de-escalation in the region, emphasizing that renewed conflict between the US and Iran would have immediate and severe consequences for local populations.
During the weekly media briefing, Dr. Majed Al-Ansari, Advisor to the Prime Minister and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that Qatar has clearly conveyed its position to US partners.
“Qatar’s position has been clearly stated to our partners in the United States: the region must not be engulfed again in war, and any escalation would have an immediate effect on its peoples,” Al-Ansari said.
He affirmed Qatar’s support for the existing ceasefire between the US and Iran, while advocating for diplomatic channels to be given a full opportunity to reach a comprehensive agreement.
Qatar continues to back Pakistan-led mediation efforts aimed at sustaining the truce and advancing negotiations. This stance aligns with Doha’s longstanding role as a facilitator in regional disputes, leveraging its close ties with both Washington and various Middle Eastern actors.
The briefing comes amid ongoing strains in US-Iran talks, with the ceasefire—brokered by Pakistan in early April—holding despite sporadic incidents and differing demands from both sides. Qatar has repeatedly stressed the importance of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and rejected any use of the critical waterway as a tool for political or military leverage.
Al-Ansari’s comments underscore Qatar’s priority on protecting regional stability and shielding civilian populations from the fallout of broader conflict.
This position reflects Doha’s balanced diplomatic approach, maintaining strong alliances while pushing for dialogue to prevent wider instability in the Gulf.
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