HH the Amir Participates in Opening Session of UN General Assembly

New York, September 22, 2026 : HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani participated in the opening session of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, held Tuesday morning in New York.

Session Draws World Leaders, Delegations

The session was attended by heads of state and government, delegations, and representatives of governmental and civil society organizations from around the world.

Amir Warns of Dangerous Regional Crisis

In his address, HH the Amir congratulated HE Khalilur Rahman on assuming the presidency of the session and thanked outgoing President Annalena Baerbock, as well as UN Secretary-General António Guterres, for their efforts. He said the region is passing through one of its most dangerous phases, describing the ongoing Gulf crisis as the cumulative result of years of postponed decisions and unrealistic policies, and reaffirmed Qatar's position that disputes must be resolved through dialogue and negotiation grounded in international law.

Amir Calls for Regional Collective Security System

HH the Amir renewed Qatar's call for establishing a regional system of collective security, warning that its absence had allowed conflicts to erupt, an international waterway to be closed, and global economic lifelines to be used as tools of pressure — with ordinary people worldwide bearing the cost through rising food and medicine prices.

Diplomatic Solution to Gulf Crisis Still Possible

He stressed that the Gulf crisis remains resolvable through diplomatic means, chiefly by reopening the Strait of Hormuz to maritime navigation and returning to negotiations, in a way that ensures security and stability for the entire region, including Iran.

Qatar Reaffirms Steadfastness Amid Ongoing Challenges

HH the Amir said Qatar has worked to defend its sovereignty and maintain its development path despite the adverse impact of the war, combining steadfastness with flexibility. He paid tribute to the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Amir from 1995 to 2013, thanking the UN General Assembly for holding a special session in his honor.

Gaza Situation Described as "Genocide"

Turning to Gaza, HH the Amir said what has happened there constitutes genocide "in every sense of the word," criticizing the gap between the scale of the catastrophe and the international response. He rejected Israeli proposals to displace Gaza's population, and reaffirmed Qatar's continued mediation efforts to consolidate the ceasefire and work toward lasting peace, calling on Israel to fully honor its commitments, including troop withdrawal and lifting the blockade.

Amir Condemns Israeli Actions in Syria, Lebanon

HH the Amir also condemned Israel's continued attacks on Syria and its occupation of additional Syrian territory, as well as its actions in Lebanon, including the destruction of villages in the south. He said addressing Israel's conduct represents a true test of the international community's commitment to the rule of law.

Regional Developments Addressed

On regional issues, HH the Amir reaffirmed Qatar's support for Syria's reconstruction and sovereignty, called for inclusive dialogue in Sudan, backed the political process in Libya, and reiterated support for the sovereignty of Somalia, Lebanon, and Yemen, including adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 1701 concerning Lebanon.

Qatar Highlights Upcoming Global Events

HH the Amir noted that Doha will host the Fourth Global Disability Summit in 2028 and the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup, alongside the expansion of the United Nations House in Doha, reaffirming Qatar's commitment to dialogue, development, and the principles of the UN Charter.

Qatari Delegation Attends Session

The session was also attended by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, along with members of the official delegation accompanying HH the Amir.

Source: QNA