Doha: The targeting of the Qatari tanker "Al Rekayyat" close to the Strait of Hormuz has been labeled a severe breach of international law, posing a threat to the global economy and energy supply channels, as it disrupts one of the world's most critical maritime corridors.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al-Arab highlighted Qatar's robust and unequivocal response to the attack. Doha not only condemned the incident but also took decisive diplomatic action by summoning the Iranian deputy ambassador. An official protest note was delivered, expressing Qatar's firm rejection of the incident and demanding immediate clarification and assurances to prevent its recurrence. The note underscored that Qatar reserves all rights under international law to take necessary measures to protect its interests and assets, emphasizing that its maritime security is non-negotiable.
This incident underscores the importance of Qatar's longstanding policy of dialogue, de-escalation, and peaceful dispute settlement in bolstering regional security and ensuring the safety of international navigation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson stated that risking maritime security and global energy supplies for narrow interests is unacceptable, and those responsible for the attack must bear the legal consequences. Qatar reiterates that the security of the Strait of Hormuz is a shared international responsibility, as disruptions there have direct implications for energy markets, supply chains, and global economic stability.
Al-Arab concluded that Qatar's stance is rooted in a balanced foreign policy that emphasizes respect for international law and peaceful conflict resolution. This approach has enhanced Doha's reputation as a reliable mediator in various regional and international matters. Qatar continues to actively support efforts to foster conditions conducive to a comprehensive agreement between Tehran and Washington, thereby contributing to regional security and stability.
Meanwhile, Al-Watan termed the attack on the Qatari tanker as an inexplicable act of aggression, describing it as an unacceptable violation of international law and an assault on the security of international navigation and global energy supplies. The publication emphasized Qatar's pivotal role, in collaboration with Pakistan, in mediating between the United States and Iran to build confidence and achieve a preliminary ceasefire agreement. Doha remains committed to engaging all parties to ensure the agreement's successful conclusion by facilitating communication between involved sides and relevant regional actors.
Qatar has consistently advocated for de-escalation and has worked to strengthen regional and global security and stability. It supports US-Iran negotiations to resolve outstanding issues through dialogue and peaceful means. Consequently, the attack on the Qatari tanker is deemed extremely strange, reprehensible, and wholly unacceptable.