Qatar urges further global efforts to eliminate nukes

Qatar has called for heightened global initiatives to eradicate nuclear weapons, regarding the objective as both a humanitarian duty and a moral obligation in the face of escalating armed conflicts, nuclear arms races, and an escalation of force in international relations. During the 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, Qatar's Secretary-General, Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, emphasized the necessity of collective action to counteract burgeoning threats to international peace and security.

His Excellency reiterated Qatar's backing for the IAEA's impartial and proficient endeavors to promote peaceful nuclear applications, enhance nuclear safety and security, and uphold an efficient safeguards system to deter nuclear proliferation. He underscored the rising geopolitical rifts and armed conflicts, citing the ongoing Israeli military actions against Palestinians, the crisis in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz, and the advancing nuclear arms race.

Qatar advocated for bolstered international backing for arms control and disarmament frameworks, highlighting the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty as a foundational element of the global order. It also reaffirmed its dedication to fostering a Middle East zone devoid of nuclear weapons. Dr. Al Hammadi stressed that nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards and dedicated solely to peaceful purposes are shielded under international law, the UN Charter, and the IAEA framework.

He warned against attacks on or threats to such facilities, asserting that such actions would jeopardize regional and global peace and security.

The IAEA Board of Governors' unanimous decision on September 9, 2026, to discard the item regarding the implementation of the safeguards agreement in Syria from its agenda, was welcomed by Qatar. This decision, according to Dr. Al Hammadi, would enable Syria to reestablish its regular status within the agency and utilize more peaceful nuclear applications to support development, reconstruction, and stability.

Qatar also highlighted a USD 600,000 pact signed through the Qatar Fund for Development to aid IAEA initiatives under its Rays of Hope program, encompassing efforts to augment radiotherapy capacity in Syria.

Dr. Al Hammadi affirmed Qatar's unwavering commitment to nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful utilization of nuclear energy, describing the IAEA as a vital ally in expanding peaceful nuclear applications and fortifying nuclear and radiological security. He also detailed Qatar's technical cooperation schemes with the IAEA, which involve enhancing regulatory oversight, refining radioactive waste management, developing national radiation monitoring capabilities including PET-MRI scans and research aimed at combating Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), and improving food safety.

Qatar signed an agreement with the IAEA in February 2026 to revise its national policy on radiation and nuclear security and strengthen the country's legal and regulatory framework. Dr. Al Hammadi concluded by reaffirming Qatar's resolve to a robust and enduring partnership with the IAEA, stating that the agency plays a pivotal role in advancing international collaboration and formulating legal frameworks aimed at ensuring a secure and sustainable future for nuclear energy and attaining the complete annihilation of nuclear weapons.