Qatar Rejects “Bargaining Chip” Use of Strait of Hormuz

TDT | Manama

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Qatar strongly condemned the Iranian attack targeting an Emirati oil tanker affiliated with ADNOC while it was transiting the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a violation of international law and maritime navigation rules.

In a statement, the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the vessel was struck by two drones as it passed through the strategic waterway. It described the incident as a “flagrant breach” of international law and UN Security Council Resolution 2817.

The ministry renewed Qatar’s rejection of using the Strait of Hormuz as a “bargaining chip,” urging that the key shipping route be kept open without conditions. It stressed that freedom of navigation in the strait is a “fundamental principle” that cannot be compromised, warning that any continued disruption would threaten the vital interests of regional states.

Qatar also called for an end to what it described as “unjustified attacks” on the property of neighbouring countries. It expressed full solidarity with the United Arab Emirates and supported all measures taken by Abu Dhabi to protect its assets.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime chokepoint between the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Gulf, is a critical route for global oil shipments.