Qatar and Saudi Arabia Protest to Iran After Tanker Attacks in Strait of Hormuz

The United States military launched a retaliatory strike against Iranian air defences, command networks, and naval vessels after Tehran attacked three commercial tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) described the operation as a “devastating blow” designed to degrade Iran’s ability to target international shipping. The strikes were a direct response to the missile attacks on Tuesday, which hit Qatari and Saudi tankers transiting the strategic waterway.

Qatar summoned Iran’s deputy ambassador to hand over a formal protest note, expressing its “strong rejection” of the attack. The Qatari foreign ministry urged Tehran to immediately cease actions that threaten regional security and global energy supplies, and demanded an urgent explanation for the incident. Doha also asserted its right to take necessary measures to protect its national interests and assets.

Saudi Arabia similarly condemned the attacks as a “grave violation” of international law and norms guaranteeing freedom of navigation. In a statement, the Saudi foreign ministry held Tehran fully responsible for the consequences of the strikes and called for an immediate halt to all practices endangering maritime security and energy supply chains. The incident marks a significant escalation in tensions within the vital oil-shipping corridor.