Qatar has highlighted concerns over what it describes as the selective application of international law, urging the global community to uphold legal principles consistently to restore trust in international institutions. The remarks were made during a high-level meeting on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly in New York.
Dr Majed bin Mohammed al-Ansari, Adviser to the Prime Minister and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that the credibility of international law depends on its even-handed enforcement. Stressing Qatar’s commitment to the UN Charter, Dr al-Ansari reiterated the importance of sovereign equality for all states and the peaceful resolution of disputes as foundational principles.
A particular focus of the discussion was the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories. Dr al-Ansari called for accountability regarding violations of international law in the region and reaffirmed the Palestinian people's right to self-determination. He underscored support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Highlighting ongoing challenges, he cited restrictions on aid deliveries, targeted killings, and attacks on paramedics, aid workers, and journalists, stating that those responsible must face justice.
Referencing an earlier address to the UN General Assembly by HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, Dr al-Ansari noted the call for equal application of the law to prevent its enforcement from being limited to weaker parties while exempting stronger ones. This principle, he said, lies at the heart of Qatar’s foreign policy, which prioritizes mediation, dialogue, humanitarian assistance, and development support as means to address conflicts and their consequences.
Qatar’s approach includes facilitating dialogue between conflicting parties as well as providing humanitarian relief in regions affected by war and natural disasters. Dr al-Ansari emphasized that peace is a shared global responsibility and cannot be monopolized by any single state or group of states. He advocated for enhanced multilateral cooperation and the creation of "global peace supply chains"—mechanisms aimed at assembling the components necessary for sustainable peace through international partnerships.
Concluding his remarks, Dr al-Ansari reaffirmed Qatar’s dedication to multilateralism, peaceful conflict resolution, and adherence to international law in accordance with the purposes and principles outlined in the UN Charter.