Mediation Under Pressure: Qatar's role in the iran-u.s. conflict : A Qualitative Content Analysis of Geopolitical, Ideological, and Economic Dimensions

Sammanfattning

This thesis examines Qatar’s mediation role in the Iran-U.S. conflict by asking why Qatar engages in mediation in a context marked by geopolitical pressure, security vulnerability, and regional escalation. The study understands mediation as a strategic and political role shaped by both material conditions and diplomatic self-presentation. Methodologically, the thesis uses qualitative content analysis of official statements, institutional documents, policy-oriented reports, and selected academic sources, with the analysis organised around three dimensions: geopolitical strategy and security positioning, ideological framing and state identity, and economic resources and energy vulnerability. The findings show that Qatar’s mediation role is enabled by the same conditions that constrain it. Geopolitically, Qatar’s alliance with the U.S. provides protection and strategic relevance, while its relationship with Iran gives it access but also creates political sensitivity. Ideologically, Qatar presents itself through the language of dialogue, peaceful settlement, sovereignty, international law, and regional stability, which helps construct its identity as a responsible diplomatic actor. Economically, Qatar’s gas wealth, financial capacity, and hosting infrastructure support its mediation role, while its energy infrastructure and economic relations expose it to regional escalation. The study argues that Qatar’s mediation should therefore be understood as strategic positioning under pressure. Through a realist-constructivist perspective, the thesis shows that Qatar’s mediation is shaped by security interests, economic vulnerability, and power relations, but also by language, legitimacy, identity, and recognition. Mediation allows Qatar to work within power politics while presenting itself as a credible actor committed to dialogue and de-escalation.