The Global Security Forum 2026 commenced on Monday under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, in Doha. This three-day forum, which will continue until October 21, brings together international experts to discuss global security challenges and the future of international cooperation.
Forum Theme and Upcoming Challenges
This edition of the forum is held under the title "The Future of Cooperation" and examines these issues in light of geopolitical changes and regional conflicts that are placing increasing pressures on international cooperation. During the opening ceremony, Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al-Thani, the Minister of Interior and Commander of Qatar's Internal Security Forces, spoke and emphasized the importance of international security cooperation based on trust and shared responsibility.
In his remarks, Sheikh Khalifa stated that Qatar is committed to supporting international efforts to achieve security and stability in a manner that preserves the sovereignty of nations and the interests of peoples. He also highlighted the importance of trust in international security cooperation.
Security Challenges and Capacity Development
Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of Qatar, addressed the regional security challenges facing Qatar in the first dialogue of the forum with Peter Bergen, a CNN national security analyst. He warned that disruptions in energy supply in the Gulf could increase costs globally in the coming days and months, adding that "the economic wave resulting from this disruption has not fully materialized yet."
The Minister of Defense of Qatar also stated that instability in the Gulf could disrupt trade between the East and West and impact foreign investments and international development aid. He emphasized that "any disruption in energy supply will have significant impacts on consumers globally and will increase costs everywhere."
Sheikh Saud also announced the development of Qatar's internal capacities in air defense, counter-drone operations, and cybersecurity, stating: "We are building our capabilities in these three areas." He also noted that Qatar is cooperating with regional partners and international allies to strengthen its defense.
The Minister of Defense of Qatar emphasized that Al-Udeid Air Base remains a Qatari military facility that houses American forces and other international allies. This base has hosted representatives from over 20 countries at times and is used for military exercises, training, and humanitarian missions.
Sheikh Saud also mentioned that despite the attack on a chartered vessel by Doha, Qatar has maintained its communication with Iran. He described the attack as surprising but stated that the issue would be resolved soon and that both sides have reached a mutual understanding regarding the incident.
Finally, the head of Qatar's Intelligence and Security Agency, Brigadier General Khalid Mohammed Al-Naemi, stated in a panel titled "The Future of Defense Partnerships: From Cooperation to Operational Capabilities" that Qatar has been able to relocate its defense assets within six hours to counter new threats.
