Letter.

 Letter Published in The National UAE On 30 Oct 26

Good move from Qatar

The article titled Iran ‘welcomes negotiations’ after reported Qatari-mediated draft deal (October 28) was an interesting and thought-provoking read. The ongoing escalation in the Middle East, including the recent developments involving the Houthis and the possibility of the US resuming military action, has created further uncertainty about the prospects for peace. Against this tense backdrop, Qatar’s latest diplomatic initiative to present Iran with a proposal to end the war is an important development in the region. The crucial question is how both Iran and the US will respond to this proposal. Will they consider it a genuine opportunity to end hostilities and move towards a peaceful settlement? Or will differences over their respective demands and strategic interests continue to stand in the way of an agreement? We will have to wait and see how the situation unfolds. Military action may intensify tensions and cause further loss of innocent lives, whereas sustained negotiations can help build mutual trust, address legitimate concerns and pave the way for a lasting settlement. The Middle East is a strategically important region, not only for the countries directly involved but also for the entire world. Prolonged conflict affects regional stability, international trade, energy supplies and the everyday lives of millions of people. Restoring peace and normalcy is therefore in everyone’s interest. – K Ragavan, Bengaluru, India