Doha – January 21, 2026 Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani addressed growing regional tensions over Iran’s nuclear program in a candid interview, stressing that Doha is actively engaging with the United States but firmly opposes any military escalation.

Responding to questions about whether Gulf states have persuaded U.S. President Donald Trump to refrain from striking Iran, Al Thani stated: “We are interacting with the Americans and do not want to see an increase in military tension. However, we did not argue with the U.S. What we offered as a partner was an honest recommendation; that the best way forward is to find a diplomatic solution to Iran’s nuclear file.”

The Qatari leader expressed deep concern about the risk of a nuclear arms race in the Middle East, warning: “We do not want a nuclear race to start in the region.”

He underscored the need for mutual understanding of security concerns across the board: “We must understand each other’s concerns and feel that everyone is secure. This includes Iranians, Palestinians, and Israelis.”

The remarks come amid heightened U.S.–Iran friction, renewed Israeli threats of preemptive action, and ongoing diplomatic efforts by Gulf states to de-escalate. Qatar has played a central mediation role in recent regional agreements, including the Gaza ceasefire