Leaders of Qatar, Iran stress diplomacy to address regional issues amid tensions

​​​​​​​By Mohammad Sio

ISTANBUL (AA) – The leaders of Qatar and Iran emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to address regional challenges during a call Thursday, amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran, according to Qatar’s Amiri Court.

Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, reviewing relations and ways to strengthen cooperation across various fields, the statement said.

The two leaders also discussed the regional and international developments, with a focus on current tensions and efforts aimed at de-escalation and the promotion of stability, it said.

The sides underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing regional issues in a manner that helps consolidate peace and security, and serves the interests of the region.

The talks come as tensions have escalated between Tehran and Washington in recent weeks, following US President Donald Trump’s statements that a “massive armada” was moving toward Iran, alongside his call for Tehran to “come to the table” for negotiations.

Iranian officials have warned that any US attack would draw a “swift and comprehensive” response, while reiterating that Tehran remains open to talks only under “fair, balanced and noncoercive terms.”