A spokesperson for Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that Gulf nations cannot rely solely on the United States or other international alliances for their security; instead, they must become more self-reliant.
He made these remarks on Monday while speaking at the Hili Forum in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson noted that the presence of international forces in the Gulf region and strategic alliances with the US are crucial, but they are not sufficient on their own to ensure security.
He emphasized that achieving self-reliance in security matters is the only way forward. While partners and allies are necessary, relying exclusively on them for one’s own security is not feasible.
Qatar plays a key role as a mediator regarding US-Iran tensions and has itself been a target of major attacks—particularly against its energy infrastructure.
The US maintains its largest military base in the Middle East in Qatar. During the conflict, Iran has retaliated against US actions by attacking American military bases and energy facilities in the region.
After six months of conflict, the two adversaries remain at a stalemate; Iran is disrupting shipping in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, while the US has imposed counter-blockades on Iranian ports.
Last month, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani visited Tehran as part of mediation efforts. Prior to that, it was reported that Iran and Oman—countries situated on opposite sides of the Strait of Hormuz—were discussing the opening of temporary shipping lanes and the removal of sea mines.
