Doha: The State of Qatar and the Republic of Turkiye have issued a warning against the resumption of military operations in the region, highlighting the serious consequences such developments could have on both global security and the world economy.
According to Qatar News Agency, the warning was made during a joint press conference held by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani and HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkiye Hakan Fidan in Doha. Both countries expressed their support for mediation efforts led by the Islamic Republic of Pakistan aimed at achieving a ceasefire agreement, ending the ongoing war in the region, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz to ensure freedom of navigation.
HE Sheikh Mohammed underscored the "sensitive and critical" nature of the current regional situation, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict with Iran and developments in the Strait of Hormuz, which have impacted maritime navigation. He noted that discussions with the Turkish Foreign Minister addressed the broader regional implications of the crisis, including its economic repercussions on Gulf countries, as well as issues such as the escalation in Gaza, ongoing Israeli bombardment, forced displacement policies, and challenges in providing humanitarian aid.
Additionally, Sheikh Mohammed mentioned continued Israeli strikes in Lebanon, stressing the need for coordination between regional and friendly countries, particularly Turkiye. He affirmed that Qatar is working with partners in the Gulf Cooperation Council and beyond to seek diplomatic solutions, including engagement with Iran, to restore regional stability.
On bilateral relations, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the "strong partnership" between Qatar and Turkiye, which has been cultivated over recent years under the leadership of both nations and encompasses political, economic, energy, and military cooperation.
HE Fidan, for his part, conveyed greetings from HE Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and highlighted their discussions on regional developments. He emphasized the necessity for increased coordination and solidarity among regional states, expressing Turkiye's full support for Pakistan's mediation efforts and readiness to aid in preventing further escalation.
Fidan warned that war not only destabilizes the region but threatens global stability, citing the economic and energy security implications of any closure of the Strait of Hormuz. He also addressed ongoing developments in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and the West Bank, emphasizing the urgency of finding political solutions.
Both sides reaffirmed the deepening Qatar-Turkey relations, driven by a shared commitment to enhancing strategic cooperation. In response to journalists' questions, both foreign ministers reiterated their support for Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to contain the escalation and end the regional war.
Sheikh Mohammed stressed Qatar's full support for Pakistan's initiatives to reach a political resolution, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and address issues related to the Iranian nuclear program through diplomacy. He highlighted the importance of supporting efforts to prevent a recurrence of tensions and ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as a shared regional and international interest.
Fidan echoed the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the current crisis, emphasizing that Turkiye does not support the continuation of the war. He recognized Pakistan's significant role in reaching an agreement, given the global implications for energy security and navigation.
The Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs also expressed rejection of using the Strait of Hormuz as leverage against Gulf countries, asserting it as an international waterway that must be protected. He called for a strong international response to any threats against freedom of navigation.
Fidan also criticized Israel's approach to addressing crises through violence and expansion, labeling it a global security issue. He noted the growing international criticism of Israeli occupation and predicted tougher global stances toward Israeli policies.