Qatar called on Monday for freedom of navigation not to be used as a "bargaining chip," during a phone call between Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

According to the Qatari Foreign Ministry, Al Thani stressed on opening maritime routes, guaranteeing freedom of navigation, and not using it as a pressuring factor, warning of "the negative repercussions this would have on the countries of the region, on global energy and food supplies, and on international peace and security."

He emphasized the need for Washington and Tehran to respond "to the ongoing mediation efforts between them, which would pave the way for addressing the root causes of the crisis through peaceful means and dialogue, leading to a sustainable agreement and preventing renewed escalation," according to AFP.