According to interlocutors, the UAE and Qatar are seeking to form a broad international coalition for a speedy diplomatic end to the conflict to avoid further escalation in the Middle East and a lasting shock to energy markets.
In particular, Qatar warned of the risk of a sharper reaction from the natural gas market if shipping in the region continues to be significantly disrupted. Following an Iranian drone attack on the world's largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility in the city of Ras Laffan, the country temporarily stopped production, causing gas prices in Europe to rise by more than 50%.
At the same time, both states are working to urgently strengthen air defense systems. The UAE has asked allies for help with medium-range air defense systems, and Qatar has asked for help in countering drone attacks, which have become a greater threat than ballistic missiles. It is estimated that Qatar's stockpile of Patriot anti-aircraft missile system interceptors will last about four days at current rates of use.
UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nagayan and Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held telephone talks in recent days with European leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
