Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani delivered a speech at the 81st UN General Assembly on September 22, 2026, where he expressed concerns about the current state of the region. He stated that the region is going through one of its most critical phases, citing years of delayed solutions and unrealistic approaches as the cause of the ongoing crisis. The Emir emphasized that the only way to resolve conflicts is through dialogue and negotiation.

Sheikh Tamim highlighted Qatar's role as a reliable mediator, warning that time does not solve pending conflicts but rather increases their cost. He pointed out that the core issue in the region is the absence of collective regional security, which encourages peaceful conflict resolution. The Emir reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to finding a diplomatic solution to the Gulf crisis and stressed that no opportunity for a peaceful solution should be missed.

The Emir strongly criticized the situation in Gaza, describing it as a "stain on the conscience of humanity." He noted that Israeli leaders are now openly advocating for the displacement of Gaza's residents, which they refer to as "migration." Sheikh Tamim expressed concern that those who consider displacement a solution will hinder efforts to improve the lives of Gaza's residents.

Sheikh Tamim also addressed the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing that Israel must adhere to its commitments to stop operations, withdraw from Gaza, and lift the blockade. He pointed out that Israel's aggressive actions have extended beyond Gaza, threatening the security of neighboring countries, including Syria. The Emir also criticized Israel's actions in Lebanon, stating that they undermine the country's sovereignty.

The Emir of Qatar emphasized that Qatar has continued to make efforts to mediate a resolution in Gaza since the beginning of the conflict, ultimately leading to a ceasefire agreement. He expressed concern that those who advocate for displacement as a solution will hinder efforts to improve the lives of Gaza's residents. Sheikh Tamim stressed that Qatar remains committed to finding a peaceful solution to the conflict.

In addition to addressing the Gaza situation, Sheikh Tamim touched on the importance of legitimate state authority, emphasizing that the monopoly on legitimate force is a crucial element of statehood. He also highlighted the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflicts in the region, citing the devastating impact of continued violence and instability.

The speech by Qatar's Emir at the UN General Assembly highlights the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflicts in the region, particularly in Gaza. The international community must work together to address the root causes of these conflicts and find a lasting solution. Key points from the speech include the need for dialogue and negotiation, the importance of collective regional security, and the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Key points

  • Qatar's Emir criticizes the situation in Gaza as a "stain on the conscience of humanity."
  • The Emir emphasizes the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflicts in the region.
  • Qatar's Emir stresses that Israel must adhere to its commitments to stop operations, withdraw from Gaza, and lift the blockade.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.