Loading article...
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Doha on Saturday, the State Department confirmed, amid heightened regional tensions as Washington awaits Iran's response to a peace initiative. The discussion emphasized Qatar's critical role as a diplomatic channel between the U.S. and Iran.
According to State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott, Rubio expressed appreciation for Qatar's partnership on a range of regional issues, including efforts to de-escalate hostilities following recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. The two leaders also discussed enhanced U.S. support for Qatar's defense capabilities and the need for sustained coordination to counter regional threats.
The meeting comes as Gulf states brace for potential Iranian retaliation after recent military actions, with Qatar maintaining open lines of communication with both Tehran and Western powers. U.S. officials have relied on Qatari intermediaries to convey diplomatic messages amid the crisis.
Officials from both countries reaffirmed commitments to regional stability and security, with plans to continue close consultation in the coming days. The State Department did not announce any immediate follow-up meetings but said coordination would remain ongoing.