Qatar Engages Parties Ahead of US-Iran Talks in Islamabad Amid Regional Tensions

Qatar's Foreign Ministry stated that it is in contact with all parties, including the United States, ahead of talks in Islamabad. Mediation can play an effective role if it helps move parties toward a political solution. Qatar supports the role of Pakistan as mediator.

Qatar condemns Israeli violations of Lebanon’s sovereignty and attacks on its people. Qatar supports the unity of Lebanon and its sovereignty and has called for an end to the war, which has put all of us at risk in the region and energy markets in a dangerous place, and calls for a continuation of the ceasefire.

All the Gulf countries are in daily contact with the different parties because the crisis is ours. The crisis of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz will be taken to the international world. The impact of this closure is being felt even in the heating and electrical systems of houses.

It’s a general responsibility of the entire world, we have to all work towards ending this crisis, which will lead to the re-opening of the Strait and its normal functioning.

The head of the UN maritime agency, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, appealed for assistance to thousands of seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. Around 20,000 seafarers and 2,000 ships have been stranded since the war began on February 28, according to the International Maritime Organization.

Dominguez reported that stranded sailors are experiencing stress and fatigue, and he urged shipping companies to provide remote support, including mental health resources. Resolving the Strait of Hormuz crisis is not the responsibility of just one country but of all countries.

Continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz turns the crisis from regional to an international crisis. The strait normally handles about one-fifth of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas.

and Regional Conflicts

Uncertainty persists over whether the second round of US-Iran talks will occur in Pakistan this week, as Iran has not officially confirmed attendance. Sources close to the mediation team reported that JD Vance is expected to arrive in Islamabad tomorrow.

In Lebanon, Israel's defense minister has threatened to kill Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem amid a 10-day ceasefire. Lebanon’s National News Agency reported several Israeli attacks and demolitions in southern Lebanon despite the ceasefire. The Israeli army warned southern Lebanon residents not to move south of specified village lines or approach areas like the Litani River, Wadi Salhania, and Saluki.

Belgium's Foreign Minister called for at least a partial suspension, describing Israel's conduct in Lebanon as unacceptable and the violence as disproportionate. Lebanon's Prime Minister is scheduled to meet EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg to brief them on Lebanon's situation.

The EU is expected to express support for Lebanon's territorial integrity and discuss humanitarian aid. In Gaza, an Israeli attack hit a group of police officers near Khan Younis. Israel's defense minister stated that Israel will continue targeting remaining Hamas forces unless the group disarms.

Hamas accused Israel of failing to meet ceasefire obligations and requested mediator intervention. Iran Air announced the resumption of domestic flights starting Wednesday, ending a 50-day pause due to the war. The initial route will be Tehran to Mashhad with return flights.