'Whole world is paying' for Iran war, Qatar warns as mediation efforts continue

The ongoing Iran war is causing a financial burden on the entire world, according to Qatar. The nation's foreign ministry director, Ibrahim bin Sultan Ibrahim Al Hashmi, addressed a press briefing in Doha, stating that negotiations between Washington and Tehran are ongoing. Qatar remains open to an Iranian delegation visiting to discuss the latest developments on Iran's stance, according to Al Hashmi.

The conflict, which began with US-Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, has significantly disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for Gulf exports. Both Iran and the US have imposed naval blockades, exacerbating the strain on global trade. Qatar supports the Mecca defense alliance comprising Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, but refrains from joining the military pact.

The alliance was established on August 7. Al Hashmi condemned the Houthis' targeting of Saudi Arabia, holy sites, and civilian facilities, and expressed support for Saudi measures to ensure sovereignty and security. Doha's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, met with Iran's Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni in Doha, focusing on regional developments and efforts to ease tensions.

The meeting also discussed the fate of three Iranian military pilots held by Qatar since the war, with Iran claiming they were detained after their aircraft was shot down in Qatari airspace in March. Qatar denies holding the pilots and states that search teams recovered the remains of one pilot. The talks between the two interior ministers also addressed security matters and drug trafficking.