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The Security Council extended the United Nations Support Mission in Libya's mandate for one year until October 31, 2026. Since August, the mission has been developing a 12- to 18-month roadmap to organize presidential and parliamentary elections. However, it missed the first milestone, which was scheduled for completion in October.According to the roadmap, the initial two months were dedicated to restructuring the high national elections commission in Libya, securing agreement between the House of Representatives and the State Council on electoral laws, and initiating the formation of a unified government.

Under the auspices of HE the Minister of Interior, Commander of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya), and Chairman of the Supreme Council of the Police Academy Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, the 14th Conference of Heads of Arab Security Training and Rehabilitation Institutions kicked off in Doha Wednesday. Hosted by the Ministry of Interior, represented by the Police Academy, the two-day conference is drawing broad participation from representatives of the ministries of interior in the Arab countries, alongside representatives of relevant regional and global organisations and institutions. These organisations are UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), UN Human Rights Training and Documentation Centre for South‑West Asia and the Arab Region, Arab Network for National Human Rights Institutions (ANNHRI), International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law (IIJ), Naif Arab University for Security Sciences (NAUSS), Arab Interior Ministers’ Council-General Secretariat of the Council of Arab Interior Ministers. The opening ceremony was attended by HE Legal Adviser to HE the Minister of Interior and General Supervisor of the Police Academy Major General Dr Abdullah Yousef al-Mal, Secretary-General of the Arab Interior Ministers Council Dr Mohammad Ali Kuman, and President of the Police Academy and Chairman of the conference Brig. Gen. Abdul Rahman Majid al-Sulaiti. Addressing the conference, Dr al-Mal said the Police Academy is proud of hosting this event with the participation of a distinguished group of leaders and experts from across the Arab world, alongside partners from specialized international organiSations, convened to exchange expertise and bolster collaboration in training and capacity-building, a fundamental pillar of security and stability. The contemporary security challenges have become more intricate and interlinked, making persistent outstanding training indispensable for capacity-building and helping security personnel keep up with developments and confront risks by proactively leveraging state-of-the-art techniques, Dr al-Mal said. Under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, Qatar has given foremost priority to the advancement of education and security training systems, in its belief that enduring security begins from the highly qualified human, he underlined. For his part, Ali Kuman affirmed that the conference convenes in Doha Thursday as part of the tremendous interest Qatar gives to the rehabilitation of Arab security apparatuses to be further capable of fully discharging their duties. He heaped praise on the initiative proffered by the Ministry of Interior in Qatar to allocate two annual scholarships at the Police Academy in the name of the late Arab security luminary HRH Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, for students from member states. This move is a gesture that embodies fidelity to the legacy of the architect of Arab security cooperation and reflects an unflagging commitment to providing member states with access to the academy’s elevated level of training and professional excellence, Ali Kuman underlined. Ali Kuman further added that hosting this conference by the academy, along with the field visit to its premises, would be an invaluable opportunity to have a glimpse of this premium level, as long as the academy abounds with outstanding scientific programs. The constructive discussions of the agenda would yield consequential outcomes that strengthen Arab cooperation in the areas of security training and rehabilitation, in support of building the capabilities of Arab security apparatuses to deal with a variety of criminal threats, he highlighted. On the first day, the conference explored a flurry of critical subjects on the agenda, including advancing the technological skills of police and security personnel to combat cybercrimes, a benchmark model plan for preventive security training and qualification, alongside a benchmark model plan for security training and qualification in crisis and emergency management. The Police Academy presented a primer on the Virtual Security Operations Center (vSOC), in implementation of the recommendation issued by the Board of Trustees of the Prince Nayef Arab Security Award to present the award-winning pioneering security programs at the relevant meetings convened under the auspices of the General Secretariat of the Council of Arab Interior Ministers. The Police Academy's vSOC in Qatar was awarded first place in the category of pioneering security programs for 2024. The vSOC performs a critical role in conducting virtual security exercises based on advanced simulation systems that mimic realistic and complex security scenarios. It also innovates unconventional remediation solutions, in addition to developing the mechanisms of operationalizing the joint operations chambers among different stakeholders to foster security integration and elevates the readiness of the national response system.

Kuwait has called for adherence to international law and the principles of human rights as the only way to maintain international peace and security. This came in a statement delivered by the Diplomatic Attache of Kuwait's Permanent Mission to the UN, Abeer Al Methen, before the third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) of the UN General Assembly, during discussions on item (71) regarding the promotion and protection of human rights, as part of the 80th session of the General Assembly.She said that the world stands at a critical crossroads amid growing violations and declining respect for international conventions, noting that recent UN reports underscore the urgent need to strengthen global solidarity in confronting humanitarian crises, achieving sustainable development, and promoting just and lasting peace, according to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA).Al Methen added that Kuwait continues to play a leading role in humanitarian work through relief and development initiatives that have reached numerous affected countries, pointing to the dispatch of 19 humanitarian air bridges to Palestine, a reflection of Kuwait's steadfast foreign policy based on supporting afflicted peoples and alleviating their suffering.She welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, expressing Kuwait's hope that it will serve as a step toward ending the long-standing humanitarian suffering. She reiterated that a just and lasting solution lies in the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international legitimacy and the Arab Peace Initiative.Furthermore, she underscored the importance of respecting the sovereignty of Lebanon and the occupied Syrian Golan, reaffirming Kuwait's firm stance rejecting any measures that violate international law or undermine regional peace and security.

Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and US President Donald Trump affirmed at their summit in Tokyo to bolster cooperation on defense and the economy.On the security front, Takaichi and Trump are likely to have confirmed the importance of reinforcing the alliance's deterrence and response capabilities amid growing challenges posed by China and North Korea, while Washington is calling for allies to spend more on defense, Japan news agency (Kyodo) reported.Takaichi and Trump signed documents, including one on cooperation to secure and supply critical minerals, including rare earths, in an effort to enhance economic security, according to Kyodo.Takaichi described the Japan-US alliance as "the greatest alliance in the world."She is expected to stress her plan, pledged in her parliamentary speech last week, to increase Japan's defense spending to 2 percent of gross domestic product by March, two years ahead of the previously set goal of fiscal 2027, Kyodo added.Japan has been raising its defense budget significantly since the fiscal 2027 target was set when the government in late 2022 revised its long-term National Security Strategy, which Takaichi has vowed to update next year.The two sides are also expected to have affirmed the steady implementation of a trade agreement struck in July, which includes a Japanese commitment to invest $550 billion in key US industries such as semiconductors, critical minerals and shipbuilding as well as increased purchases by Japan of US agricultural and other products.Based on the bilateral deal, Trump lowered US tariffs on goods from Japan, reducing the levy on automobiles to 15 percent from the previous rate of 27.5 percent.Trump is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Seoul next Thursday, the next stop on his Asian tour.

Qatar has reiterated that the success of the first phase of the agreement to end the war in the Gaza Strip is a collective responsibility to ensure its implementation, leading to a comprehensive cessation of hostilities and the achievement of peace and stability in the region, in full compliance with the principles of the Charter and international law.This came in a statement delivered by Qatar's Permanent Representative to the UN HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani, during the Quarterly Open Debate of the Security Council on the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question, held at the UN headquarters in New York.HE Sheikha Alya noted that the meeting follows the convening of the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit on Oct 13, highlighting the participation of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, in the signing ceremony of the agreement to end the war in Gaza, alongside US President Donald Trump, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.She added that over the past two years, Qatar has continued its mediation efforts in partnership with Egypt and the US, and despite challenges and obstacles, an agreement was reached to end the bloodshed and humanitarian suffering in Gaza.HE Sheikha Alya pointed out that the mediation succeeded in securing humanitarian truces that alleviated suffering by delivering aid to the Palestinian people and facilitating the release of detainees and prisoners.She emphasised that Qatar remains committed to its role as a mediator and peace-building leader, with its wise leadership dedicated to resolving conflicts through diplomatic means and undertaking humanitarian efforts to relieve the suffering of the people of Gaza and create favourable conditions for the return of displaced persons.She explained that the Qatar's Gaza Reconstruction Committee has initiated efforts to rebuild by clearing rubble, reopening main roads, and facilitating the movement of Palestinians within the Strip. Qatar also launched a land bridge through Jordanian and Egyptian territories to deliver humanitarian aid, including shelter tents and food and medical supplies for more than 436,000 affected individuals in the Strip.HE Sheikha Alya reaffirmed Qatar's welcome of the UN General Assembly's adoption of the New York Declaration on implementing the two-state solution and establishing an independent Palestinian state.She expressed appreciation for the leadership roles of Saudi Arabia and France in this regard and welcomed the positive stances of countries that have recognised the State of Palestine, affirming its rightful claim to full UN membership.She stressed that for a peaceful settlement and the success of the two-state solution, it is essential to reject actions that undermine it, including settlement expansion in the West Bank, settler violence, and land appropriation, affirming that Gaza is an inseparable part of Palestinian territory and of a unified Palestinian state.She conveyed Qatar's strongest condemnation of the Israeli Knesset's approval of two draft laws aimed at imposing Israeli sovereignty over the occupied West Bank, describing them as a challenge to international law and legitimate resolutions.She urged the international community, especially the Security Council, to assume its legal and moral responsibilities and take urgent action to compel Israeli authorities to halt expansionist plans and settlement policies in occupied Palestinian territories.She continued by condemning plans to construct a settlement that would sever East Jerusalem from the West Bank, calling it a blatant violation of international legitimacy, particularly Resolution 2334.HE Sheikha Alya expressed Qatar's denunciation of statements regarding the so-called Greater Israel Vision, considering them a continuation of crisis escalation and violations of state sovereignty and international law.HE Sheikha Alya also reaffirmed Qatar's support for Syria, its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity, and its people's aspirations for stability and development. She condemned Israeli attacks on Syria, describing them as grave violations of international law.She reiterated Qatar's steadfast support for the Republic of Lebanon and the efforts of its government, stressing the need for Israeli occupation forces to withdraw from all Lebanese territories, and called on all parties to strictly adhere to the ceasefire agreement.HE Sheikha Alya affirmed Qatar's unwavering commitment to its sincere and credible approach to the peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and mediation, and its support for all initiatives aimed at promoting peace and security in the region and the world.

The opening session was addressed by His Excellency the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, Saad Sherida al-Kaabi and GECF Secretary General Mohamed Hamel. The 27th Ministerial Meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) is currently taking place in Doha, bringing together official delegations, senior officials, researchers, and leading energy experts.The high-level gathering is providing a unique platform for dialogue and collaboration, focusing on the future of natural gas and its vital role in strengthening global energy security..

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aati held two phone calls on Monday with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen, discussing the rapid developments in the Gaza Strip and support for security and stability in the region. During the two phone calls, Abdel Aati stressed the critical importance of both parties to the Sharm el-Sheikh pact adhering to the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip. He emphasized that respecting the agreement represents a fundamental step toward consolidating the ceasefire, permanently ending the war, and alleviating the humanitarian suffering in the Gaza Strip. He also emphasized the need for full access to humanitarian and relief aid to the Gaza Strip, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The two calls addressed the ongoing preparations for Egypt to host the International Conference on Early Recovery, Reconstruction and Development in Gaza next November. The Egyptian Foreign Minister stressed the importance of beginning the implementation of early recovery and reconstruction plans for Gaza as soon as possible, within the framework of a comprehensive vision that preserves the rights of the Palestinian people, in accordance with the Arab-Islamic Plan for Early Recovery and Reconstruction, and US President Donald Trump's Middle East Peace Plan. In turn, the Danish and French foreign ministers affirmed their full support for Egypt's tireless efforts to promote stability in the region, expressing their aspiration to continue coordination with Egypt on issues related to early recovery and reconstruction in Gaza.

The State of Kuwait welcomed the agreement reached in Qatar between Pakistan and Afghanistan on an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of mechanisms to consolidate lasting peace and stability between the two countries. Kuwait expressed hope that this step will help end tensions and strengthen security and stability, in line with the aspirations of the peoples of both countries. In a statement issued on Monday, Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised the constructive efforts and tireless endeavors led by Qatar and Turkiye in hosting and sponsoring the negotiations that culminated in the agreement. The Ministry stressed the importance of dialogue and adherence to diplomatic means to resolve disputes and enhance regional and international security.

The State of Qatar has reiterated its firm position that the establishment of a nuclear-weapons-free zone in the Middle East is more urgent than ever, given the current regional and global security challenges. This was affirmed in a statement delivered by Khalid Ibrahim Al Mansouri, member of Qatar's delegation to the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, during the First Committee's discussions on nuclear weapons at UN Headquarters in New York. Al Mansouri stressed that the proliferation of nuclear weapons remains a deeply troubling concern for the international community, as it significantly heightens the risk of accidents and potential attacks—threats that carry catastrophic consequences for humanity and future generations. He warned that the continued development and modernization of nuclear arsenals, along with threats to use them, further exacerbate global tensions and undermine both regional and international peace and security. Qatar emphasized that global efforts to achieve comprehensive nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation are foundational to building safe and peaceful societies. Al Mansouri noted that the adoption of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons by the UN General Assembly reflects a growing international awareness of the dangers posed by nuclear proliferation, beginning with the risks associated with testing and weapons development. He further highlighted that the possession of nuclear weapons complicates existing armed conflicts, worsens regional crises, and contributes to a heightened state of global insecurity. In light of escalating tensions stemming from regional and international conflicts—as well as the increasing incorporation of nuclear weapons into military doctrines and continued testing of delivery systems, Qatar stressed the critical need for regional and international consensus in the Middle East. Building good-neighborly relations, he said, must be a priority for resolving disputes, enhancing security, and protecting civilians and vital infrastructure. Qatar reaffirmed its support for convening the sixth session of the United Nations Conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and Other Weapons of Mass Destruction, scheduled for November this year. Al Mansouri also underlined the importance of the upcoming 2026 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), set to take place from April 27 to May 22, and welcomed Vietnam's presidency of the conference. He expressed Qatar's full support for Vietnam's efforts and hoped the conference would yield substantive and positive outcomes. He reiterated the importance of implementing obligations arising from international agreements related to nuclear disarmament and emphasized the need for the responsible development of peaceful nuclear energy. He stressed the importance of preventing the leakage of radioactive materials across borders and called for robust safeguards under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to ensure the highest standards of nuclear safety and security in a world where proliferation remains a pressing concern.

Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi affirmed that despite the major events that have affected the region and the world, the GCC states have established themselves as a fundamental pillar of regional and global security and stability, and as a distinguished model of integration and cooperation among their nations. These remarks were made during a discussion session hosted by the Institute of Arab Gulf States. The event took place on Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, at its headquarters in the US capital, Washington, in the presence of several ambassadors from GCC and Arab countries, as well as a number of senior officials and specialists. At the beginning of his participation, Albudaiwi expressed his appreciation to the Institute of Arab Gulf States for its role in enhancing the international community's understanding of the region's issues, and its support for developing specialised academic research on the Gulf and its international relations. During his talk, he highlighted the GCC's most prominent achievements in the political, economic, security, and military fields. He pointed out that the Council has unified its positions in international forums, strengthened its strategic partnerships with countries as well as regional and global organisations, and solidified its humanitarian and developmental role at the regional and global levels. Moreover, the Secretary General explained that the GCC states have made tangible steps in diversifying their economies and reducing their dependence on oil by implementing ambitious development visions and investing in renewable energy, technology, tourism, and logistics, in addition to strengthening their economic integration by activating the Gulf Common Market and facilitating the movement of goods, capital, and individuals. Regarding the GCC's vision for the next decade, Albudaiwi underscored that the priorities are to complete the requirements for the Customs Union and Monetary Union, move towards a unified Gulf economy, enhance joint security and defense aspects, lead efforts in energy transition and sustainable development, and empower youth and women as fundamental drivers for the future of their countries. Besides, he underlined the GCC's firm position in support of the Palestinian cause, its rejection of any infringement upon the rights of the Palestinian people, and its emphasis on the need to reach a just and comprehensive solution in accordance with international legitimacy resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative. GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi concluded by emphasising that the GCC is entering a new era defined by integration and global leadership, based on a common vision and a firm political will led by the wise leadership of the GCC states, to achieve the aspirations of its peoples for greater security, prosperity, and well-being.

Doha Forum, in collaboration with the International Crisis Group, convened an expert panel discussion in Brussels on Thursday, titled "Fault Lines and Frontlines: Intersecting Conflict Theatres in the Middle East and Europe." The event, held at the Embassy of the State of Qatar, brought together diplomats, officials, and policy experts for a timely discussion on the growing interconnection between conflict dynamics across both regions.As geopolitical tensions deepen and conflict theatres become increasingly interdependent, the session examined how developments in one region influence the security, economic, and humanitarian landscapes of the other. Panelists discussed the implications of shifting alliances, energy interdependence, and the role of major and regional powers — from the United States and the European Union to Turkiye and the Gulf states — in navigating these complex and overlapping challenges.The event featured opening remarks by Executive Vice President of the International Crisis Group Richard Atwood, and His Excellency Executive Director of the Doha Forum Mubarak Ajlan Al Kuwari.Panelists included: Permanent Delegate of Turkiye to the EU Ambassador Faruk Kaymakci; Special Envoy for the Middle East at the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Johan Verkammen; Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa at the European External Action Service (EEAS) Ambassador Helene Le Gal; and Deputy Executive Director of the European Institute of Peace Stine Lehman-Larsen.HE Executive Director of Doha Forum, said: "Doha Forum is committed to fostering dialogue that bridges regions, perspectives, and disciplines. The dynamics connecting Europe and the Middle East underscore the importance of collective understanding and cooperative diplomacy. Events like this help strengthen mutual engagement and advance more inclusive, effective approaches to conflict prevention and resolution."Meanwhile, Executive Vice President, International Crisis Group said: "We are a proud partner of the Doha Forum. We are pleased that this year, which marks Crisis Group's 30th anniversary, we also have the opportunity to co-host a side-event with the Doha Forum in Brussels. Specifically, we felt it was important to discuss the growing interdependence of conflict theatres in the Middle East and Europe and identify opportunities for cross-regional collaboration to better prevent and resolve conflicts."The Doha Forum - International Crisis Group event took place ahead of Doha Forum 2025, which will be held in Doha from 6 to 7 December under the theme "Justice in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress."The Doha Forum is a leading global platform that brings together leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, civil society representatives, and thought leaders to exchange visions and work together to find innovative solutions to the world's most pressing challenges.The Forum's vision is based on the values ​​of integrity, inclusivity, innovation, respect for diversity of viewpoints, and fostering a culture of mutual respect and shared progress.The last edition of the Doha Forum was held in December 2024, under the theme "The Innovation Imperative," with over 5,000 participants from over 162 countries, including over 350 speakers, attending the two-day event.

The State of Qatar has affirmed its commitment to international mechanisms and measures aimed at disarmament, particularly regarding nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction, in a bid to promote peace and security at both regional and international levels. This came in the State of Qatar's statement delivered by Second Secretary of the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations, Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Thani, during the general debate of the UN General Assembly's First Committee at its 80th session, held at UN headquarters in New York. The Second Secretary of Qatar's Permanent Mission emphasized that the proliferation of conventional weapons and weapons of mass destruction — including nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons — continues to pose a threat to nations and peoples, violating fundamental human rights. He noted that this threat has grown in recent times due to the persistence of armed conflicts in various parts of the world, amid a lack of consensus and effective arrangements to resolve or limit them, including efforts related to conflict prevention and peacebuilding. He stressed that avoiding the negative consequences of armed conflicts requires the international community to intensify efforts to strengthen disarmament strategies at all levels — including for small arms and light weapons. In this regard, he underscored that the effective implementation of agreements on monitoring and tracing these weapons, and combating their illicit trade and trafficking, contributes to curbing their spread and mitigating the intensity of conflicts. He expressed the State of Qatar's condemnation of the Israeli occupation forces' targeting of civilian facilities in the Gaza Strip — including hospitals, schools, and refugee camps — stressing that such attacks have led to an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe and the loss of tens of thousands of civilian lives. He warned that these actions pose a serious threat to international peace and security, particularly in the Middle East. The State of Qatar has called for an immediate ceasefire and for the unhindered delivery of humanitarian and relief aid and essential supplies to all those in need throughout Gaza, he said. He also reiterated the State of Qatar's welcome of the United Nations Conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and Other Weapons of Mass Destruction. He expressed support for the Kingdom of Morocco's presidency of the conference's sixth session — due to conclude at the end of November — and voiced hope for full regional cooperation to ensure the success of the conference and its goals of strengthening regional and global peace and security. The Second Secretary of the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations emphasized that the State of Qatar attaches great importance to the implementation of treaties and agreements on nuclear non-proliferation, the prohibition of nuclear weapons, and the prevention of their use, testing, or threat of use. He further noted that Qatar is updating its national laws and procedures on disarmament and non-proliferation in line with its international commitments.