Invitation remains open for Iran to review details of search, rescue operations for its pilots: Al-Ansari

Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari, advisor to the Prime Minister and spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, disclosed on Tuesday that Qatar remains open to Iran sending a technical team to examine the search and rescue operations for its pilots. Despite previously extending the invitation to Tehran, Iran has not responded.

During a press briefing, Al Ansari dismissed Iranian media claims as "completely baseless" and emphasized Qatar's adherence to international and humanitarian obligations. He clarified that the Iranian aircraft violated Qatari airspace and were engaged per established rules, and that the pilots did not respond to contact, prompting the search and rescue teams to act.

The teams succeeded in locating the remains of one pilot, informing Iran, and concluding the search. Qatar offered the Iranian delegation details of the operations but received no response. The spokesperson stressed Qatar's commitment to its sovereignty and readiness to address any future aggression. He reiterated the importance of respecting state sovereignty and coexistence based on mutual respect.

Regarding bilateral relations, Al Ansari highlighted the region's need for coexistence based on respect for sovereignty, and indicated a focus on containing the current crisis and returning to the diplomatic track. He emphasized the necessity of returning to negotiations following the violation of the ceasefire and developments in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire, freedom of navigation, and the resumption of negotiations.