QATAR PERSPECTIVE

The Qatari media coverage reveals a perspective of a direct victim of the conflict, with a narrative framing where Qatar appears as an innocent actor caught up in a war that does not concern it. Qatari media places significant emphasis on the concrete economic damages suffered by the country, particularly the Iranian attacks on Ras Laffan's gas facilities which represent 17% of national export capacity. This focus on economic losses ($20 billion annually) and force majeure contracts with Europe and Asia transforms Qatar into a collateral victim of a regional conflict, reinforcing its status as a neutral and responsible actor.

The dominant tone oscillates between victimization and moral indignation, especially evident in the statements by Minister al-Kaabi who expresses astonishment that a 'brother Muslim country' would attack Qatar 'during Ramadan'. This religious and cultural dimension of the discourse aims to delegitimize Iran morally while strengthening Qatar's image as a guardian of Islamic values. Qatari media adopts an accusatory tone towards Iran, describing its attacks as 'unjustified' and 'silly', while maintaining a diplomatic discourse calling for dialogue and de-escalation.

The silences reveal Qatari geopolitical interests: no substantial criticism of Israel or the United States emerges, despite their role in initiating the conflict. This omission is explained by Qatar's geopolitical balancing strategy, which maintains relations with Washington while avoiding completely alienating Tehran. Qatari media also downplays the sectarian dimensions of the conflict (Sunni-Shia) that could undermine its role as a regional mediator.

The narrative framing positions Qatar as a global energy hub whose stability is essential to global energy security. This representation transforms Iranian attacks into a threat against international economic order rather than a mere bilateral conflict. The emphasis on impacts on Europe, Asia, and developing countries (via fertilizers) universalizes Qatari concerns and justifies international intervention in favor of Doha. This media strategy aims to internationalize the conflict and mobilize the international community against Iran while preserving Qatar's image as a reliable and responsible partner for the global economy.