Qatar Says Iran-US Mediation Continues but the Salalah Push to Reopen Hormuz Temporarily Failed

Majed al-Ansari, spokesman of Qatar's Foreign Ministry and adviser to the prime minister, told Al Hadath television, in remarks Khabaronline published on Sunday, October 18, 2026 citing ISNA, that mediation between the United States and Iran continues and that the two sides, despite serious challenges, are exchanging views and proposals. He added that the aim of the Salalah meeting was to reopen the Strait of Hormuz temporarily until a permanent agreement, but the effort did not succeed.

Al-Ansari also described broad coordination and continuous contact among the Persian Gulf states to reach a common position on any proposed solution. He said these states prefer diplomacy but are able to defend themselves and do not accept being targeted without a deterrent response.