Qatar Outlines Mechanism to Prevent Escalation in Lebanon

Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, stated that Israel is overreacting to clashes instead of seeking de-escalation.

In an interview with the Financial Times, he revealed the existence of a mechanism to prevent escalation in Lebanon, which includes verifying the ceasefire.

He pointed out that efforts to prevent escalation in Lebanon are coordinated among Beirut, Washington, Tehran, and mediators.

Sheikh Mohammed affirmed that the talks held in Switzerland laid the groundwork for ongoing settlement negotiations, emphasizing that the regional goal is to establish a new security framework between regional countries and Iran.

He said, “Any model for managing the Strait of Hormuz must be discussed with Iran, Oman, the Gulf states, and the strait remains open; we have received assurances that there is no order to close it.”

He added, “Navigation through Hormuz is expected to return to normal levels within 30 days of the agreement.”

The Prime Minister and Foreign Minister stressed the necessity of establishing the communication line agreed upon in Switzerland between Washington and Tehran to prevent obstruction of Hormuz’s reopening, counter misinformation, and remove mines.

He also noted the possibility that Gulf countries may be asked in the future to finance an investment fund with Iran.