Doha: Qatar reaffirmed its commitment to mediating between the United States and Iran, warning that diplomatic efforts must continue to prevent the Middle East conflict from escalating further.
Speaking in an interview at Oxford University, Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said negotiations made significant progress and expressed confidence that an agreement could be reached.
He stressed that both sides should prioritise a workable settlement rather than delay negotiations in pursuit of an ideal agreement.
The prime minister said Qatar remained engaged with Washington and Tehran to prevent the regional situation from spiralling out of control.
US remains open to negotiations after midterm elections
Al Thani said the administration of US President Donald Trump remained willing to pursue a diplomatic solution despite the outcome of the November 3 midterm elections.
According to the Qatari prime minister, Washington's interest in reaching an agreement did not change following the elections.
His remarks come amid concerns that the United States could resume military operations against Iran after Trump held back further strikes during the weeks preceding the vote.
Iran repeatedly warned that renewed American attacks would trigger retaliation against US military interests and targets associated with the occupying forces in Palestine across the region.
Qatar continued its diplomatic engagement in an effort to prevent another round of military escalation.
Fresh reports of strikes raise concerns
The diplomatic developments coincide with reports of further security incidents near the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian news agencies reported on Saturday that two missiles struck Qeshm Island, although details about the origin of the strikes and the extent of any damage remained unclear.
The United States did not announce any new attacks on Iranian territory at the time of the reports.
Despite renewed concerns, Qatar maintains that a negotiated settlement remains possible.
No formal agreement or timetable for concluding negotiations was announced, but Doha indicated that mediation will continue as both sides consider possible terms for ending the conflict.
