Saudi, Qatari mediation message signal ‘Iran still has pathways to avoid isolation’ - interview

Saudi Arabia and Qatar are actively working to de-escalate tensions between the United States and Iran, signaling that diplomatic pathways remain open. Bahraini political analyst Dr. Ahmed Alkhuzaie told The Jerusalem Post that the Gulf nations' swift message supporting negotiations aims to convey to both Washington and Tehran that the conflict has not yet reached a point of no return.

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Saudi Arabia and Qatar’s quick message in support of continued negotiations is a way to signal to both Washington and Tehran that the conflict has not yet progressed to the point where diplomacy is no longer an option.

This diplomatic push involves Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud, who discussed mediation efforts between the US and Iran. Their call came shortly after Iran launched ballistic missiles at Israel, ending a period of relative calm. The mediation efforts are crucial as Tehran demands Israel cease its operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon as a condition for halting hostilities against US, Israeli, and Gulf interests.

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remain committed to regional stability and do not wish to be drawn into an uncontrolled spiral of confrontation.

Alkhuzaie highlighted that Riyadh and Doha exert influence over both Washington and Tehran, though their leverage with Iran is less pronounced. As "stabilizing partners in energy and security," their influence on Washington is "constructive," ensuring they remain "indispensable allies" for safeguarding US interests. Their relationship with Tehran, while "subtler," has maintained open communication channels even amidst heightened conflict and Iranian attacks.

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Still positive.

The message conveyed to Tehran is that "regional isolation is not inevitable if it engages constructively." This approach underscores Qatar's continued role as a mediator for humanitarian arrangements and indirect talks, while Saudi Arabia engages cautiously through regional dialogues and limited de-escalation initiatives. Their actions aim to prevent an "uncontrolled spiral of confrontation" and maintain regional stability.

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subtler