Qatar, a key US ally in the Middle East, has stepped in to mediate the conflict between the United States and Iran. On Thursday, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani visited Tehran.
Four days after Washington announced “Operation Economic Outcast,” the Qatari Prime Minister arrived in Tehran and met with Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf—a top negotiator and a key spokesperson for the ruling Islamic Republic government—urging Iran to return to diplomatic talks.
In response to Al Thani’s call, Ghalibaf stated that Tehran might return to diplomatic negotiations if the US decides to completely halt attacks on Iran launched from the territories of Iran’s Middle Eastern neighbors.
Major General Mohsen Rezaei, the executive head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, also attended the meeting between Al Thani and Ghalibaf. He stated that Iran would soon reach a final decision regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, adding that if the US genuinely seeks dialogue, it must initiate talks before Iran takes further action concerning the Strait.
Following his visit to Tehran, Al Thani posted a message on the social media platform X, stating that he had emphasized the importance of free maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz during his discussions. He also conferred with the Iranian Foreign Minister regarding the establishment of a temporary joint Iran-Oman shipping corridor through the Strait and a joint project for mine clearance.
