Qatar's Diplomatic Push: Prime Minister's Crucial Visit to Iran

Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani is set to visit Iran for key consultations with Iranian officials on regional issues. Qatar's mediation efforts are crucial in securing a Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Antony Blinken's recent Middle East visit intensifies the urgency for peace.

Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani will visit Iran soon, according to the semi-official Tasnim news agency. The visit aims to discuss significant regional issues with Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.

Qatar has been a key mediator, alongside Egypt and the United States, in efforts to end a 10-month conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently left Qatar after a whirlwind Middle East tour aimed at brokering a ceasefire deal.

Amid these diplomatic efforts, Iran has vowed retaliation over the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, an incident it attributes to Israel. Despite Iran's allegations, Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement in the killing.

(With inputs from agencies.)