Qatar calls on Iran to halt Israel attacks to protect hostage negotiations

Qatar’s Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani, during a phone conversation with Iranian leaders, urged Iran to halt its attacks on Israel to avoid disrupting ongoing hostage negotiations in Doha.

This information was provided by two diplomats familiar with the conversation, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniya in Tehran last month, Iran had vowed to attack Israel. Despite global concerns, the attack has not yet occurred.

Al Thani warned Iran that such an attack could further jeopardize the ceasefire negotiations in Gaza, which Hamas has refused to participate in.

A diplomat mentioned that Al Thani “encouraged Iran to de-escalate and highlighted the need for peace” during the negotiations. Another diplomat added that the Qatari Prime Minister warned Iran to consider the impact of the attack on ongoing diplomatic efforts.

The ceasefire negotiations in Doha have entered their second day, focusing on a proposed six-week ceasefire in Gaza and other areas in exchange for the release of some of the hostages taken during the October 7 attack.