An Israeli attack on Doha last September marked a significant “turning point” in the approach to collective security for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, according to a senior Qatari official. Speaking at the Mediterranean Dialogues 2025 Forum in Naples, Italy, Dr Majed bin Mohammed al-Ansari, Adviser to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, explained that the incident prompted a major reassessment of regional and international partnership priorities.
A New Era for Regional Security
During a session titled “Beyond Sharm El-Sheikh: The Gulf Amidst Conflicts in the Middle East,” Dr al-Ansari said the attack forced enhanced security coordination across the Gulf to counter growing threats. He stressed the importance of the Gulf’s role in consolidating regional stability through dialogue and diplomacy. This renewed focus comes as the GCC states are seen as a key pillar of regional and global stability amidst numerous challenges. The current phase, he noted, demands multilateral cooperation to confront crises and prevent their escalation in a way that serves the interests of the region’s people.
Gaza and the Path to a Two-State Solution
Addressing the situation in the Gaza Strip following the Sharm El-Sheikh Summit ceasefire agreement, Dr al-Ansari was clear that any future political or security arrangements must be grounded in international legitimacy. He emphasised that these plans must reflect the will of the Palestinian people. He reiterated Qatar’s position that a comprehensive vision for a two-state solution remains the only viable path toward achieving a just and lasting peace.
Qatar’s Continued Role as Mediator
Despite facing security challenges, Qatar continues to prioritise its function as a peacemaker and effective mediator in the Middle East. Dr al-Ansari affirmed that promoting political dialogue and supporting humanitarian responses, especially concerning the Palestinian issue, remain at the top of the country’s agenda. He highlighted the critical importance of partnerships between Qatar, its Gulf neighbours, the United States, and European nations in maintaining regional security. Strengthening these international ties is essential, with officials from other nations also seeing potential for wider co-operation with Qatar on various fronts.
By fostering these alliances and championing diplomatic solutions, Qatar aims to navigate the region’s complex political landscape. The nation remains committed to its role in de-escalating conflicts and providing crucial humanitarian support where it is needed most.
