Doha: HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani affirmed that the memorandum of understanding signed between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran has laid the foundation for ending the war and establishing a negotiation track that paves the way toward a final agreement between the two sides.
According to Qatar News Agency, His Excellency stated in an interview with Al Jazeera TV that the memorandum is the outcome of extensive efforts over weeks, in collaboration with partners in Pakistan, and with the support of several regional and international partners, aimed at creating a conducive environment for launching negotiations.
His Excellency emphasized that the memorandum's purpose is to stop the war and establish a negotiation framework, expressing hope that these efforts will lead to a final agreement. He noted that the memorandum established a clear institutional framework for the negotiation process, ensuring continuity of talks through political commitments and regular meetings to address challenges and interim issues.
He highlighted that ongoing discussions between the Iranian and American sides focus on the nuclear file, while other issues will be addressed within a regional framework, including regional security and the Strait of Hormuz. His Excellency stressed coordination between Qatar, GCC states, and regional countries toward lasting solutions.
HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs also mentioned that the past period witnessed challenges from the memorandum to the start of negotiations, particularly concerning Lebanon and the Strait of Hormuz, with mechanisms in place to avoid such issues. He noted political will among all parties to engage in negotiations despite external influences.
Regarding Qatar's mediation role, His Excellency confirmed that Qatar will continue in partnership with Pakistan, working to bridge gaps between parties. He stressed that Qatar's core message is to protect the negotiation process.
His Excellency addressed concerns about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's potential influence on the negotiations and reiterated the need to end the Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories and respect Lebanon's sovereignty. He also discussed the impact of Israel's actions in the region, highlighting the establishment of a special working group for Lebanon to address any developments.
Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, His Excellency affirmed Qatar's stance on maintaining the status quo and ensuring safe passage for vessels. He highlighted the dialogue between Iran, Oman, and regional countries on future strait management, emphasizing Qatar's reliance on the strait as a main sea outlet.
On regional relations, His Excellency underscored Gulf coordination for dialogue with Iran to resolve issues through peaceful means. He expressed hope that the momentum would extend to the Palestinian issue, leading to an independent state.
In a message to negotiating parties, His Excellency stressed the importance of handling agreements responsibly to spare the region from further conflicts. He noted recent transformations in the Middle East and reiterated Qatar's priority to protect national security, work with regional partners, and achieve stability.
His Excellency concluded by emphasizing the need for a just solution to the Palestinian issue for regional stability and expressed hope that current US-Iran momentum would also address the Palestinian cause, granting them a sovereign state.