Qatar Emir, Macron discuss Iran and regional tensions in phone call

Qatar Emir, Macron discuss Iran and regional tensions in phone call
French President Emmanuel Macron and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani shake hands at an agreement signing ceremony in Paris, February 27, 2024.
Reuters

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and French President Emmanuel Macron have discussed developments related to Iran and wider regional tensions during a phone call, Qatar’s Amiri Diwan said.

According to a statement released by the Qatari royal court, the two leaders reviewed ways to further strengthen strategic cooperation between Qatar and France across a range of sectors, while also exchanging views on the latest regional and international developments.

The call focused in particular on efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, including recent developments surrounding Iran and their implications for regional security, the statement said.

Sheikh Tamim and Macron also discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip, including ongoing ceasefire efforts, as well as ways to support stability in Lebanon.

The talks come amid heightened regional tensions, with the United States and Iran exchanging warnings in recent days. U.S. President Donald Trump said earlier this week that negotiations with Tehran were ongoing, but expressed pessimism about reaching a positive outcome.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has warned that any U.S. attack on Iran would trigger a wider regional conflict.

Qatar has played an increasingly active diplomatic role in recent years, engaging with regional and international partners on mediation efforts aimed at reducing tensions and supporting conflict resolution across the Middle East.

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