Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a telephone conversation on Thursday to discuss recent developments in the Middle East and explore diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing regional tensions. According to official statements from both governments, the call focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing regional security and stability through joint diplomatic coordination.

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry highlighted that the discussions included a review of the strategic partnership between Doha and Washington, with an emphasis on enhancing ties. Sheikh Mohammed reiterated Qatar’s support for diplomatic initiatives designed to ensure freedom of maritime navigation, particularly in strategic waterways, and expressed commitment to achieving a comprehensive peace agreement in the region.

Separately, the U.S. State Department confirmed that Rubio underscored the United States' ongoing commitment to the security of Qatar and the safeguarding of navigation rights through the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway has been a focal point of heightened tensions following Iranian restrictions imposed on February 28, barring the safe passage of vessels linked to Israel and the United States in response to joint strikes against Iranian targets.

U.S. officials, including then-President Donald Trump, have asserted that the Strait of Hormuz remains open and under the control of U.S. forces, ensuring the continued transit of oil through the crucial maritime channel. The conversation between the Qatari and U.S. officials reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region amid competing security concerns and geopolitical rivalries affecting key maritime routes.