Qatar says Hormuz, Bab el-Mandeb shipping must not be 'held hostage'

Summary

Qatar's government has issued a strong statement on the need to maintain security in the strategic maritime chokepoints of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb. This reflects heightened regional geopolitical tensions, likely involving Iran and its proxies, which pose a direct threat to global energy supply chains. As a top LNG exporter, Qatar is signaling deep concern over potential disruptions that could impact its economy and global markets.