Qatar’s Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, expressed deep surprise during a press conference following Iran’s missile attack on a U.S. military base in Qatar.
The strike, which came as retaliation for U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, was described by Al Thani as an unexpected and concerning escalation, especially coming from a country Qatar considers both a “neighbor and brother.”
“This was a sudden act from a brotherly neighbor, occurring during an already tense period,” Al Thani stated.
He revealed that Qatar’s armed forces were able to intercept further attempted attacks, preventing additional damage.
Al Thani strongly condemned the escalation:
“There are too many unacceptable assaults against various nations. Such irresponsible actions risk dragging the entire region into deeper turmoil.”
Calling for restraint, he urged both the United States and Iran to return to dialogue:
“We must prioritize negotiation over confrontation. It’s crucial that both sides return to the negotiating table to prevent further escalation.”
This incident marks a significant turning point in regional dynamics, putting Qatar — traditionally a mediator — in the middle of direct hostilities between two of its key partners.
