Qatar’s Prime Minister warns that an attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities could lead to catastrophic water shortages in the Gulf. He emphasizes the risk of sea contamination and humanitarian crises, stressing the need for diplomatic solutions to alleviate tensions between the US and Iran.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, the Prime Minister of Qatar, expressed grave concerns regarding the implications of a potential attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities. In an interview with Tucker Carlson, he indicated that such an event could render Gulf nations lacking in water resources, as the sea would be severely contaminated. Qatar has reportedly conducted simulations to analyze the potential fallout from such an attack, revealing that the country could face a water shortage within three days.
The prime minister highlighted that, despite advancements in water capacity through the construction of additional reservoirs, the threat persists for all Gulf countries. He poignantly remarked, “No water, no fish, nothing… no life,” stressing the humanitarian and ecological repercussions of contamination in the Gulf region. His warnings coincided with US President Donald Trump’s invitation to Iran to engage in nuclear discussions, hinting at possible military action if diplomatic efforts fail.
Qatar, located roughly 190km south of Iran, heavily relies on desalination to meet its water needs, a common practice among Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Sheikh Mohammed reiterated that the contamination of Gulf waters would lead to a humanitarian and economic crisis impacting the entire region. The Iranian nuclear power plant in Bushehr poses a risk, although key uranium enrichment facilities are situated inland, raising concerns for Qatar regarding the security and environmental safety of any potential military actions.
Reaffirming Qatar’s stance against military action, he stated, “We will not give up until we see a diplomatic solution between the US and Iran.” He emphasized Tehran’s willingness to engage in dialogue and alleviate tensions, stating they aim to improve their relationships within the region. While Western nations accuse Iran of seeking nuclear weapons—an accusation Tehran strongly refutes—past agreements have attempted to regulate its nuclear program, notably the 2015 deal from which the US withdrew in 2018.
In summary, Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed of Qatar cautioned that an attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities could severely disrupt water supplies in the Gulf region, highlighting the risks of contamination and potential humanitarian crises. His commitment to pursuing diplomatic resolutions underscores the importance of dialogue to alleviate escalating tensions, especially in light of Iran’s willingness to engage with regional partners. Overall, the threat of military action against Iranian nuclear sites poses significant challenges for the Gulf nations reliant on the water supply from the Arabian Gulf.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
