Qatar PM Warns of Gulf Water Contamination from Potential Attack on Iran
Qatar’s Prime Minister warns that an attack on Iran’s nuclear sites would contaminate Gulf waters, threatening the livelihoods of millions who depend on desalinated water. Sheikh Mohammed advocates for diplomacy while cautioning against military action. The comments come amidst renewed U.S. pressure on Iran. Qatar has also taken steps to secure its water supply in light of these risks.
Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, has expressed grave concerns regarding potential military action against Iran’s nuclear facilities. He warned that such an attack would “entirely contaminate” the Gulf waters, impacting the livelihoods of over 18 million people in Qatar, the UAE, and Kuwait, who rely on desalinated water for their needs. The Prime Minister stressed, “no water, no fish, nothing… no life” would remain in the Gulf following such an event.
The statements come as U.S. President Donald Trump continues his “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, aiming to negotiate a new nuclear framework while isolating Tehran economically. The Prime Minister cautioned against military escalation, advocating for a diplomatic solution to avoid a conflict that could destabilize the entire region. He affirmed, “There is no way that Qatar would support any kind of military step… we will not give up until we see a diplomatic solution.”
Sheikh Mohammed noted that Qatar had previously acknowledged the risk of depleting its potable water supply within days of an attack on Iran’s nuclear sites. In response to these concerns, Qatar has invested in building 15 large concrete water reservoirs to ensure its emergency water needs are met.
The Prime Minister highlighted the proximity of some Iranian nuclear installations to Doha as a significant risk. Gas-rich Qatar maintains a complex relationship with Iran, sharing the world’s largest gas field, while also being a close ally of the United States and hosting its largest military base in the Middle East. Following Trump’s withdrawal from the nuclear agreement in 2018, Iran has exceeded the agreed limits of its nuclear program.
In summary, Qatar’s leadership emphasizes the environmental and humanitarian risks associated with potential military actions against Iran’s nuclear facilities. The country’s reliance on Gulf waters for desalination heightens the stakes, warranting a diplomatic approach over military solutions to avert regional instability. Qatar’s proactive measures to secure its water supply further underscore the complexities of its geopolitical landscape, balancing ties with both the U.S. and Iran.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
