Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, had a phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi to talk about regional developments. They discussed Pakistani mediation efforts between the United States and Iran, along with the latest events in Lebanon. Al-Thani reiterated Qatar’s backing for a comprehensive agreement to resolve the crisis and emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation as a crucial principle that should not be compromised.
The Qatari prime minister urged all parties to engage positively with mediation initiatives to achieve lasting peace and regional stability. He highlighted the significance of diplomatic solutions and dialogue in addressing regional challenges and preventing further escalation. The call took place amidst ongoing regional and international efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran and reduce tensions in the Gulf.
Amid concerns over maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters cautioned Israel against bombing Beirut and its southern district of Dahieh. The military command advised citizens in northern Israel and military settlements in occupied Palestinian territories to evacuate if Israeli attacks persist. It accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of threatening to bomb Beirut and Dahieh, continuing what it called “malicious actions” in the region.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed worry over Israel’s repeated ceasefire violations in Lebanon, the ongoing displacement of Lebanese citizens, and the US support for Israel during a call with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Pezeshkian highlighted the challenges posed to the diplomatic process by the US’s failure to meet its commitments and Israel’s destabilizing actions. He reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to resolving regional tensions through dialogue and diplomacy.
Netanyahu and Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, announced their directive to strike Beirut’s southern suburbs in response to what they termed Hezbollah’s violations of the ceasefire in Lebanon. Tehran reportedly suspended talks and draft proposal exchanges with the United States through mediation in protest against Israel’s actions in Lebanon.
