Doha, Qatar: Qatar has categorically denied claims circulating regarding the detention of Iranian pilots, describing the reports as misleading amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate regional tensions.
Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al-Ansari said in a statement on X that Qatar was surprised by the claims, particularly at a time when diplomatic efforts and initiatives are underway to reduce tensions in the region.
Al-Ansari said contact had been established with the pilots concerned following their violation of Qatari airspace and after authorities confirmed the trajectory of the targeting. He said the necessary measures were taken to defend Qatar's territory in accordance with international law after rules of engagement were followed and attempts to communicate with the pilots received no response. The circumstances, he added, were clarified at the time through official channels.
He further stated that Qatar's search and rescue teams, which possess advanced expertise and capabilities, carried out extensive operations to search for the remains of the pilots.
According to Al-Ansari, Qatar also communicated with the Iranian side to coordinate the handover of the remains of one of the pilots who was found, in accordance with the relevant provisions of international humanitarian law.
He added that Qatar had invited an Iranian team to visit the country to be briefed on the details of the search and rescue operations conducted in April. However, according to the spokesperson, the Iranian side has yet to respond to the invitation.
