Qatari PM Urges Iran To Reconsider Attack on Israel as Hostage Talks Progress
Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani reportedly urged Iranian leaders on Thursday to reconsider any military actions against Israel, warning that such moves could jeopardize ongoing hostage-truce negotiations between Israel and Hamas. According to a senior source from one of the mediating countries—Qatar, Egypt, or the United States—al-Thani conveyed to Iranian officials the potential risks of an attack by Iran or Hezbollah at a time when progress is being made in the talks.
The conversation appeared to have had an impact, as Hezbollah reportedly decided to delay any planned retaliation against Israel, according to a source close to the group. This development aligns with reports suggesting that Hezbollah does not want to be seen as obstructing the negotiations.
The ongoing discussions in Doha, involving American, Qatari, and Egyptian officials alongside Israel’s negotiating team, are aimed at reaching a phased deal to end the 10-month conflict in Gaza. A potential agreement could help prevent a broader regional conflict, especially following recent high-profile assassinations attributed to Israel, which have escalated tensions.
Qatari mediators, along with their international counterparts, are focused on facilitating a cease-fire in Gaza that would allow for the release of hostages and the entry of humanitarian aid into the region. The talks are expected to continue, with officials expressing cautious optimism about the progress made so far.
