Qatar has rejected Iran’s explanation over recent missile strikes on its territory, insisting that evidence shows the attacks struck civilian areas and critical infrastructure within the country.
The position was conveyed during a telephone conversation between Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, and Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi.
According to a statement issued by the Qatar News Agency, the Iranian foreign minister had maintained that the missile strikes were directed at American interests and were not intended to target the State of Qatar.
However, Al Thani firmly rejected the claim, stating that available evidence indicates the strikes affected civilian and residential areas inside Qatar.
He noted that some of the missiles landed near Hamad International Airport and other sensitive locations.
The Qatari prime minister also warned that the attacks threatened critical infrastructure and industrial facilities, including installations linked to the country’s liquefied natural gas production sector—an industry central to Qatar’s economy and global energy supply.
Describing the incident as a grave escalation, Al Thani said the strikes constitute a clear violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and a breach of international law.
He stressed that actions capable of endangering civilian populations and strategic facilities cannot be justified under any circumstances.
The Qatari leader reiterated Doha’s commitment to regional stability and diplomacy but emphasised that any threat to the country’s territorial integrity would be treated with utmost seriousness.
The exchange reflects growing tensions between Tehran and several Gulf states as the broader crisis in the Middle East continues to intensify.
Analysts warn that the situation could trigger wider regional repercussions if diplomatic efforts fail to contain the conflict.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Follow us on:
