Iran, Qatar reaffirm defense ties after 12-day war with Israel
Military chiefs denounce Israeli aggression, U.S. support, and pledge closer coordination amid rising regional tensions
TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) — Iran and Qatar have reaffirmed their strategic military cooperation following a 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel, during which the United States was accused of providing full military backing to Tel Aviv.
The reaffirmation came during a phone call between Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, and Khalid bin Mohammed Al-Attiyah, Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs.
General Mousavi praised Qatar as a “friendly nation” with which Iran enjoys “exceptionally close political relations.” He thanked Doha for condemning Israel’s violation of Iranian sovereignty during the conflict and acknowledged Qatar’s consistent support for Palestine.
He said Iran’s position during the war was vindicated in the eyes of the global community, with Islamic countries and freedom-seekers rallying behind Tehran.
Mousavi also condemned the United States and Israel, accusing them of disregarding international norms. He claimed Washington provided “unrestricted intelligence, logistical, and operational support” to Israel during the war, and emphasized Iran’s firm response through military strength.
Al-Attiyah extended condolences over the martyrdom of senior Iranian commanders, including Major General Mohammad Bagheri, and reiterated Qatar’s condemnation of Israel’s actions.
He assured that Qatar did not and would not allow its airspace or land to be used for attacks against Iran, affirming support for diplomacy and peaceful conflict resolution.
Both commanders agreed to enhance bilateral defense ties and strategic coordination moving forward.
The war began on June 13, when Israel—backed by U.S. intelligence and firepower—struck Iranian military and nuclear facilities.
Iran retaliated with Operation True Promise III, deploying hundreds of ballistic missiles and kamikaze drones against key Israeli military and industrial sites, including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Be’er Sheva.
After U.S. B-2 bombers attacked Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites, Iran responded by targeting the U.S. al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar.
The barrage overwhelmed Israeli missile defense systems, prompting Tel Aviv to request a ceasefire after 12 days.
Throughout the conflict, Qatar maintained a delicate balance as a U.S. ally and Iranian partner.
It condemned Israeli aggression, safeguarded its sovereignty, and reportedly mediated the ceasefire.
Iran and Qatar’s growing partnership spans energy, aviation, and defense—reinforced by shared interests and opposition to external interference.