Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, stated that establishing a hotline between the United States and Iran is essential for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. This is part of new understandings following a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the US and Iran, brokered in part by Qatar and Pakistan, which aims to end the war and create a framework for negotiations, particularly on the nuclear file.
The Prime Minister confirmed that Qatar will resume normal Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) production within weeks. The current understandings include a commitment to ensure safe and free passage for commercial vessels for 60 days, with initial arrangements focused on mine removal and the establishment of the aforementioned hotline to resolve any disputes in the strait.
Discussions between the Iranian and American sides are primarily focused on the nuclear issue. Other regional concerns, including the Strait of Hormuz, are expected to be addressed within a broader regional framework, with coordination among Qatar, GCC states, and other Arab and regional countries to develop lasting solutions based on a unified Gulf vision. The memorandum aims to halt hostilities and establish a structured negotiation process with political-level commitments for regular meetings to address challenges and interim matters. Qatar views the Strait of Hormuz as an international waterway that must remain open for navigation, reiterating its firm stance against any alteration to its pre-war status.
The Qatari official also highlighted that, after the initial period, a dialogue concerning the future management of the Strait will commence between Iran, Oman, and other regional nations. This comprehensive approach underscores the diplomatic efforts to ensure regional stability and secure maritime routes, which are critical for global trade and energy supplies. Qatar had previously stressed the necessity of dialogue with Iran for regional security, advocating for a unified Gulf vision and a new security framework.
