*** Qatar Condemns Iranian Attacks at NATO Meeting, Warns of Regional Escalation | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Qatar Condemns Iranian Attacks at NATO Meeting, Warns of Regional Escalation

The Qatar has strongly condemned recent Iranian attacks during a high-level meeting of the NATO Council held in Brussels on March 19, 2026.

The session, chaired by NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska, brought together member states and countries participating in the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative. Qatar was represented by Charge d’Affaires Sara bint Ahmed Al Mohannadi.

Addressing the council, Al Mohannadi welcomed NATO’s condemnation of the Iranian attacks and its expression of solidarity with Qatar. She noted that Doha had long warned of the risk of regional escalation since the onset of the Gaza War.

She revealed that since February 28, Qatar has been subjected to what she described as “shocking and unexpected” Iranian strikes, targeting not only military positions but also vital infrastructure, including energy facilities.

The Qatari diplomat warned that such attacks threaten global energy supplies, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, and disrupt international aviation supply chains, potentially triggering wider economic consequences.

Qatar reiterated its firm condemnation of Iran’s use of ballistic missiles and drones, calling the attacks a clear violation of sovereignty and a serious escalation. The country also affirmed its right to self-defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.

Al Mohannadi further expressed solidarity with several countries affected by similar threats, including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Cyprus.

She stressed that the attacks undermine ongoing mediation and dialogue efforts supported by Qatar and Oman, while welcoming United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817, which condemns the strikes and reaffirms the importance of protecting sovereignty and civilians.

Al Mohannadi also welcomed a statement by European Union leaders emphasizing de-escalation, regional security, and energy stability, while reaffirming Qatar’s strong partnerships with the United States and its allies.

She concluded by reiterating Qatar’s commitment to diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions, ending hostilities, and restoring regional stability.