Qatar Warns of Regional Catastrophe from Hormuz Cable Damage, Urges US-Iran Peace

Qatar has issued a stark warning regarding the potential consequences of disruptions to undersea internet cables in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that such incidents would disproportionately affect countries across the region, including Iran. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has called for an immediate cessation of attacks and threats targeting this vital waterway.

During a weekly press briefing, Ibrahim Al Hashmi, director of the Media and Communications Department at MoFA, stated that nations in the region, Iran among them, would bear the most significant impact if these crucial cables were damaged. He posed a rhetorical question, asking if an honest assessment from the Iranian side wouldn't identify the region's countries, rather than the United States or Israel, as the primary victims. Al Hashmi pointed out that Israel, in particular, does not benefit from the Gulf's waters.

These remarks follow an earlier warning from Iran’s security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, who suggested that cables, data centers, and artificial intelligence (AI) facilities throughout the region could face attacks in the event of renewed conflict with the United States. Concerns about the safety of internet cables connecting Europe and Asia have been heightened by the recent capture of Yemeni territory along the Red Sea coastline by the Iran-backed Houthis. Fighting continues between the Yemeni government and the Houthis in areas like Bab al-Mandeb, a critical chokepoint for approximately one-fifth of global internet traffic.

Al Hashmi elaborated on the regional reliance on the Strait of Hormuz, noting that its waters are essential for irrigation, salt production, and fisheries. He warned that any damage could jeopardize water security, stating, "Water security in the Strait of Hormuz is an integral part of water security for our region and our people." He also underscored Iran's responsibility to safeguard these waters, adhere to international law regarding freedom of navigation, and protect the marine environment.

He urged an end to what he termed "irresponsible attacks," highlighting their detrimental effects on people across the region. Reiterating Qatar's commitment to mediating the US-Iran crisis, Al Hashmi stressed that a peaceful resolution is paramount for preserving regional stability. He expressed optimism about the mediation efforts, stating, "We hope that the solution will be tomorrow, or today, as soon as possible." He emphasized the need for mediators to remain persistent and work tirelessly towards an agreement.

Al Hashmi cautioned against despair or considering military action as a viable option, warning against further escalation. "We must be focused on a peaceful solution at the negotiating table," he asserted. "It is the only solution that preserves the region and its stability. And we must work towards that with every possible effort."

Qatar has been instrumental in conveying Iran's seven-day proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which includes demands for an end to the U.S. maritime blockade, sanctions relief, and the release of frozen assets.