Qatar PM Warns of Potential Contamination from Attack on Iran’s Nuclear Sites

Qatar’s Prime Minister warns that attacking Iran’s nuclear sites could contaminate Gulf waters, endangering the water supply for Qatar, the UAE, and Kuwait. He advocates for a diplomatic resolution over military action, which he fears could escalate regional conflict. Meanwhile, the U.S. reaffirms its pressure strategy on Iran, which denies pursuing nuclear weapons.

Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, has warned that any military assault on Iran’s nuclear facilities could severely contaminate the Gulf waters, jeopardizing the life of residents in Qatar, the UAE, and Kuwait. The three nations, which rely largely on desalinated water from the Gulf, host over 18 million people dependent on this water source due to limited natural reserves.

Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the dire consequences of an attack, stating it would lead to a total loss of water, fish, and life in the region. He appealed for diplomatic measures to resolve tensions and avoid military action, which he foresees would escalate into a broader regional conflict. “There is no way that Qatar would support any kind of military step… we will not give up until we see a diplomatic solution,” he said in a recent interview.

Amid escalating tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated his commitment to applying maximum pressure on Iran while suggesting negotiations regarding its nuclear program. However, Iran remains resolute, with its leadership asserting it will not succumb to coercion. Sheikh Mohammed highlighted Qatar’s vulnerability, noting that the country could exhaust its potable water supply within merely three days of an attack on Iranian sites.

To mitigate potential risks, Qatar has proactively constructed 15 significant water reservoirs to secure its emergency water supply. The proximity of Iran’s nuclear sites to Doha has alarmed Qatar, as these facilities are not only close but also pose environmental and humanitarian threats to the region. Qatar maintains a complex relationship with Iran, hosting a substantial U.S. military presence while simultaneously sharing the world’s largest gas field with Tehran. In light of these tensions, Qatar’s strategic approach emphasizes the necessity of addressing issues through diplomatic dialogue rather than military intervention.

In conclusion, the remarks by Qatar’s Prime Minister underscore the urgent need for diplomatic efforts regarding Iran’s nuclear program to avert environmental devastation and potential humanitarian crises in the Gulf region. Given their dependence on desalinated water and the precarious stability in the area, it is imperative that Qatar and its neighbors work collaboratively to seek peaceful resolutions.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com