Qatar Warns US-Iran Escalation Could Be Catastrophic
Doha Highlights Regional Risks
Qatar on Tuesday warned that any military escalation between the United States and Iran could have severe consequences for the region. The statement came after Washington threatened strikes in response to Iran’s crackdown on protests.
Majed al-Ansari, a spokesperson for Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, said in Doha, “Any escalation would have catastrophic effects in the region and beyond. We want to avoid this as much as possible.”
Past Tensions Between Washington and Tehran
In June, Iran launched an attack on the US Al Udeid military base in Qatar following American strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Qatar used the incident to broker a rapid truce between Washington and Tehran, demonstrating its role as a regional mediator.
Since Thursday, mass protests in Iran have challenged the clerical leadership, marking one of the largest anti-government movements since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
US Threats and Iranian Response
The White House reiterated on Monday that President Donald Trump is considering air strikes to halt Iran’s crackdown on demonstrators. In response, Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that the US military and shipping would be “legitimate targets” if attacked.
Human rights groups report a rising death toll, despite an ongoing internet shutdown in Iran. The Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights (IHR) confirmed 648 deaths, including nine minors, and estimated the actual number could exceed 6,000.
Diplomatic Channels Remain Open
Qatar emphasized that diplomatic efforts continue. “We believe a diplomatic resolution is still possible,” al-Ansari said, adding that Doha is engaging with regional partners and neighbors to mediate a peaceful solution.
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