Doha, Qatar – Web Desk: Qatar has said it will not support any Iranian proposal to impose transit fees on vessels passing through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest energy shipping routes.
Speaking in an interview with a British newspaper, Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani stressed the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and restoring maritime activity in the region following recent tensions.
He said the US-Iran hotline established to facilitate communication remains crucial for ensuring stability in the Strait of Hormuz. According to the Qatari premier, the direct communication channel is designed to prevent misunderstandings, misinformation, and any potential escalation that could threaten regional security.
Al Thani warned that certain elements may attempt to undermine the peace agreement and destabilize maritime operations. He emphasized that any threats reported by commercial vessels should be verified directly with Iran to avoid unnecessary escalation.
Addressing reports about a possible Iranian proposal to charge fees for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, the Qatari prime minister said Doha would not automatically support such a plan.
“If Iran presents a formal model, it will need to justify its proposal, and we will carefully review it,” he said.
The Qatari leader added that it would be unacceptable for any external party to exercise control over Qatar’s sole maritime access route to global markets.
Expressing optimism about regional stability, Al Thani said maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz could return close to pre-conflict levels within the next 30 days if conditions continue to improve.
He also revealed that Qatar intends to restore liquefied natural gas (LNG) production to normal levels within the coming weeks. However, he noted that full normalization of LNG operations remains dependent on stability and the restoration of normal conditions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global energy corridor, handling a significant portion of the world’s oil and LNG shipments, making any developments in the region closely watched by international markets.
