Geneva: The State of Qatar has issued a strong condemnation against the targeting of its territory with ballistic missiles, labeling these actions as a clear violation of its national sovereignty and a direct threat to its security and territorial integrity. Qatar views these acts as a breach of international law and the United Nations Charter, escalating threats to regional security and stability.
According to Bahrain News Agency, this condemnation was conveyed by Jawhara bint Abdulaziz Al Suwaidi, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Permanent Delegation of the State of Qatar to the UN Office in Geneva, during a Conference on Disarmament meeting. Al Suwaidi emphasized that the missile attacks, which targeted civilian interests and facilities, endanger the lives of citizens and residents, representing a significant breach of international law. She affirmed Qatar's right to respond in alignment with Article 51 of the UN Charter to defend its sovereignty and security.
Al Suwaidi expressed Qatar's concerns over the ongoing regional conflict escalation, including attacks impacting several Gulf states. She warned of the potential consequences on regional stability and global security and peace. Qatar's statement also condemned sovereignty violations against Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Oman, Jordan, and Iraq, expressing solidarity with these nations in safeguarding their security and sovereignty.
Highlighting the risks associated with Iran's actions, Al Suwaidi noted the danger of opening new conflict fronts and expanding hostilities. She underscored that sustainable security should be pursued through dialogue and diplomacy instead of military escalation and stressed the importance of protecting civilians, diplomatic missions, energy facilities, and maritime navigation routes.
Concluding the statement, Al Suwaidi reiterated Qatar's call for an immediate cessation of military actions and a return to diplomacy. She urged adherence to principles of good neighbourliness and prioritizing rational dialogue to ensure regional security and the welfare of its people.