Tensions between Qatar and Iran escalated after Doha accused Tehran of attacking a Qatari vessel near the Strait of Hormuz, summoned Iran's deputy ambassador, and issued a formal protest. Iran rejected the allegations, describing them as unacceptable and calling the incident suspicious.

Qatar Condemns Attack and Issues Formal Protest

The Qatari government strongly condemned what it described as an Iranian attack on one of its vessels near the Strait of Hormuz.

In a formal protest note, Qatar said the attack constituted "a dangerous violation of international maritime safety, a direct threat to global energy security, and a clear and flagrant breach of international laws."

The protest was delivered after the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Iranian Deputy Ambassador Mohsen Mohammad Qanei. The note was handed over by Ibrahim bin Yousif, Director of the Ministry's Protocol Department.

Qatar called on Iran to immediately halt any actions that threaten regional security, endanger international navigation, or disrupt global energy supplies.

Doha also demanded an urgent explanation for the incident and urged Tehran to take immediate steps to prevent similar attacks in the future while complying with international law.

The Qatari government further reaffirmed its right to take all measures it considers appropriate under international law to protect its national interests, assets, and resources.

Iran Rejects Allegations

In response, the Iranian Foreign Ministry rejected Qatar's accusations, describing them as "unacceptable" and characterizing the targeting of the Qatari vessel as a "suspicious incident."

The ministry argued that the behavior of certain vessels has endangered navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, complicating Iran's efforts to ensure the safe movement of maritime traffic.

Tehran also referred to Article 5 of the memorandum of understanding governing the Strait of Hormuz, stating that Iran remains committed to managing the waterway, providing maritime services, and maintaining its security.

According to Iranian state television, the Saudi and Qatari vessels were targeted after attempting to use what it described as the "U.S.-Oman route," which Iran said disrupted the agreed transit system in the strait.

Gulf States Condemn Tanker Attacks

The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia separately condemned attacks carried out over the past 24 hours against three fuel tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, holding Iran responsible for the incidents.

Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi described the attack on the Saudi oil tanker as an "Iranian criminal act," warning that such incidents pose a direct threat to maritime security and the global energy supply chain.