Qatari Gas Ship Hit in Gulf as Iran Awaits US Decision on Hormuz
Diplomats in Doha push for a quick deal to reopen the strait, while Iranian strikes and diplomatic moves escalate regional tensions.
By Lucas Navarro ·
A Qatari liquefied natural gas carrier took damage in the Persian Gulf on Friday night as regional powers waited for Washington to answer questions that could determine the future of the Strait of Hormuz. The incident marks a sharp increase in maritime risk just as diplomatic efforts aim to prevent a return to all-out war.
Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s top diplomat, said on Saturday that Iranian negotiators are currently in Qatar discussing a proposal. He stated that the strait could reopen within two days if the United States meets several specific conditions. Araghchi told followers on his Telegram channel that Iran hopes the U.S. chooses diplomacy over other paths and that Washington’s rationality will dictate whether Iran prepares for defense or continues talks. He confirmed that no direct negotiations are occurring between the two governments at this time.
Qatar’s national gas company, Nakilat, announced that the vessel Al Mayeda was struck by unidentified objects. The company reported that the ship sustained damage but remained operational. No crew members were injured, and officials said there was no environmental impact. Qatar’s foreign ministry condemned the attack and said authorities were investigating the incident.
President Donald Trump said on Saturday that he had a very good talk with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The two leaders discussed the war in Iran during the call. Netanyahu has not issued a public statement regarding the conversation. Some Israelis worry that Netanyahu may seek to attack Iran again to improve his political standing after losing a majority in parliament in last week’s elections.
In Gaza, Israeli strikes killed eight people on Sunday. Five people died in Khan Younis, according to Nasser Hospital. Three others, including a four-year-old boy, died in Gaza City, according to Shifa Hospital. Israel’s military said it targeted militants in both areas. More than 1,570 Palestinians have been killed since the October 2025 ceasefire began, bringing the war’s total death toll to over 74,500.
Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels reported two airstrikes on the University of Hodeida’s medical school. The group blamed Saudi Arabia for the strikes. The Saudi-led coalition said it conducted a precision operation. Separately, Iran designated the British navy and air force as terrorist organizations and labeled MI6 a hostile entity. Iran accused the United Kingdom of providing military bases and logistical support for U.S. and Israeli attacks.
The United Nations called for an investigation into the death of a staff member held by the Houthis. The staffer had been in custody since June 2024. This is the second U.N. employee to die in Houthi custody.
