**Qatar PM Describes Fallout of US-Israel War on Iran as ‘Earthquake’**
*New York City, September 20, 2026* – Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani has characterized the economic and geopolitical repercussions of the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran as an “earthquake,” warning of the potential for escalating tensions in the Middle East. His remarks were made during the Qatar Economic Forum, held in conjunction with the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
During his address, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the necessity for states to respect each other's sovereignty as a fundamental requirement for achieving security in the region. He cautioned against the “cycles of escalation” that can arise from conflicts, suggesting that the current situation is creating instability that extends far beyond the borders of the Middle East.
“The region needs a framework in which sovereignty is respected,” Sheikh Mohammed stated, adding that no nation should pose a threat to another. He described the economic fallout from the conflict as sending “shock waves” that challenge existing assumptions about security and stability in the area.
The Prime Minister noted that discussions during the crisis have frequently shifted from security and de-escalation to concerns about energy supplies and shipping routes. He acknowledged that these issues reflect deeper questions about reliability in a time of disruption. “When so much is being disrupted, what can still be relied upon?” he queried.
Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict, Sheikh Mohammed expressed confidence in Qatar's ability to withstand the pressures on its economy and security. However, he recognized that the regional turmoil is indeed having an impact. He asserted that “permanent security cannot be built through arrangements that leave any state permanently exposed to insecurity,” and called for addressing the root causes of tensions to foster greater confidence among nations.
The Prime Minister’s comments come as Gulf leaders are set to meet with US President Donald Trump during the UNGA, where discussions on the situation in the Middle East are expected to be a focal point.
In addition to addressing geopolitical concerns, Sheikh Mohammed also announced a significant shift in Qatar’s investment strategy, pledging over $38 billion for domestic infrastructure projects over the next five years. This initiative is aimed at attracting private investors and demonstrating Qatar’s resilience in the face of regional instability.
Al Jazeera correspondent Kristen Saloomey, reporting from New York, noted that this investment plan reflects Qatar’s commitment to bolstering its economy despite the ongoing conflict. The Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of the impact of the war on the region underscores the complexity of the current geopolitical landscape.
As the UNGA convenes, the situation in the Middle East and its global implications are anticipated to dominate discussions among world leaders. Sheikh Mohammed's calls for respect for sovereignty and a collaborative approach to security resonate with broader themes that are likely to be addressed during the assembly.
Additionally, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Majed Al-Ansari, confirmed that the country is actively engaged in mediation efforts aimed at restarting talks between Tehran and Washington to bring an end to the US-Israel war on Iran. This diplomatic initiative reflects Qatar’s ongoing commitment to fostering dialogue and stability in a region marked by conflict.
The UNGA, which begins on Monday and concludes on Friday, is expected to be a platform for leaders to address pressing global issues, including the ramifications of the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. As the situation continues to evolve, the international community will be closely monitoring developments and responses from key stakeholders in the region.