Qatar warns Iran it will not be used as 'political punching bag'

Key Points:

• Qatar strongly condemned Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that it will not tolerate attacks on its sovereignty or be used as a political pawn in the ongoing conflict.
• Qatar emphasized its support for diplomatic efforts and mediation, particularly backing Pakistan's mediation role, and called for a comprehensive regional agreement addressing the interests of all parties, including Iran.
• The Qatari foreign ministry highlighted the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz immediately, criticizing Iran's use of the strategic waterway as a political bargaining chip.
• Despite rising tensions, Qatar stated there is no general Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) push for escalation with Iran and reaffirmed its long-standing position favoring diplomatic engagement over confrontation.
• Qatar praised European efforts, especially by the UK and France, to secure safe navigation through the Strait and expressed ongoing cooperation with international partners to achieve a peaceful resolution.