Qatar Emir Al Thani: Iran violated our sovereignty, events in Gaza are genocide

Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani made assessments regarding the national and regional agenda at the opening of the new legislative year of the Qatar Shura Council. Al Thani described Iran's attack on Qatari territory as a violation of sovereignty and emphasized that the events in Gaza are a clear genocide. He stated that those responsible must be held accountable and noted that the Palestinian cause is among the top priorities.

Referring to Iran's attack on the country's territory, Al Thani said, “Qatar has been subjected to an attack by Iran on its own territory, which is a clear violation of its sovereignty, international law provisions, and principles of good neighborly relations. Our armed forces and security units have fulfilled their duty to defend the homeland.”

Al Thani stated that they prefer diplomacy and peaceful solutions, and that the right to defend sovereignty does not contradict the determination to prevent a large-scale war.

HORMUZ STRAIT AND ENERGY MARKETS

Al Thani noted that the closure of the Hormuz Strait and damage to some energy facilities in Ras Laffan negatively affected exports, reminding that Qatar provides about one-fifth of the global liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade. Despite the adversities, Al Thani stated that the contribution of non-hydrocarbon sectors to the real gross domestic product (GDP) has reached approximately 80%, and that the country's economy grew by 2.9% in 2025.

'THOSE RESPONSIBLE IN GAZA MUST BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE'

Addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and regional developments, Qatar Emir Al Thani said, “The Palestinian cause continues to be among our top priorities. We confirm that what is happening in the Gaza Strip is undoubtedly a genocide, and those responsible must not escape accountability.”

Al Thani also added that the security and sovereignty of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are non-negotiable.