Qatar and Syria foster steadfast partnership amid regional turmoil

Qatar Tribune

23-07-2025

Khaled Al Hameidi
Doha
Qatar continues to solidify its influential humanitarian and political role in support of Syria as regional challenges intensify.
In the wake of renewed Israeli attacks on Syrian territory, Doha has once again reiterated its firm stance in rejecting these aggressions, affirming its unwavering support for Syria's unity and sovereignty while continuing to provide humanitarian and developmental assistance, hallmarks of the fraternal ties between the two nations.
High-level diplomacy
reflects deep solidarity
A recent phone call between the Amir His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and President Ahmed Al Shara of Syria served as a strong symbol of Qatar's solidarity with the Syrian people.
During the call, HH the Amir reaffirmed Qatar's full support for efforts that bolster Syria's territorial integrity, preserve its national unity, and protect it from any attempts to destabilise the country.
HH the Amir also strongly condemned the latest Israeli assaults, describing them as a flagrant violation of Syrian sovereignty, a breach of international law and the UN Charter, and a dangerous threat to regional stability.
For his part, President Al Shara expressed deep appreciation for Qatar's longstanding positions, praising the principled role Doha has played in supporting the Syrian people across political, humanitarian, and developmental domains.
Humanitarian commitment
on the ground
Qatar's support for Syria is not confined to diplomatic statements, it is equally tangible in the field. Over the years, Qatar has established an ongoing humanitarian airbridge to Syria, delivering vital medical supplies, food aid, and shelter materials to areas in need.
Most recently, under the directives of HH the Amir, a delegation from Qatar's International Search and Rescue Group, part of the Internal Security Force 'Lekhwiya', arrived at Aleppo International Airport to assist in firefighting efforts in Syria's coastal Latakia countryside and deliver urgent humanitarian aid to affected communities.
Commenting on Qatar's multifaceted role, Dr. Khaled Hammad, a strategic analyst specialising in Middle Eastern affairs, stated: 'Qatar's actions reflect a comprehensive vision for Syrian stability, one that balances political principle with humanitarian responsibility. It's not just reacting to crises; it's proactively investing in Syria's future as a partner in rebuilding and recovery.'
Dr. Hammad emphasised that the deployment of Qatari rescue teams to Syria demonstrates the sincerity and moral grounding of Qatar's foreign policy, one that prioritizes support for the people over alliances with regimes.
Diplomatic advocacy in
international forums
In a further testament to its diplomatic commitment, Qatar temporarily represented Syria's interests at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), a move that received official gratitude from Damascus during Syria's participation in the OPCW Executive Council in The Hague.
The Syrian delegation expressed its deep appreciation for Qatar's support, recognising it as a reflection of strong bilateral ties and Qatar's desire to see Syria reintegrated into its regional and international surroundings.
Ahmed Taleb, a seasoned journalist specialising in Middle Eastern affairs, said: 'Qatar's role goes beyond symbolic support, it's an effort to facilitate Syria's reintegration into the international community, but under a framework that supports the Syrian people's aspirations for justice, freedom, and institutional rebuilding.'
Taleb added that Qatar's stewardship of Syria's interests at a sensitive international body like the OPCW signals a sophisticated diplomatic approach, one that offers Syria a protective diplomatic umbrella while encouraging gradual resolution of complex global disputes.
A firm stand against
Israeli aggression
In response to recent Israeli airstrikes, Qatar issued a forceful condemnation through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, calling the attacks a 'blatant assault on Syria's sovereignty, a serious breach of international law and the UN Charter, and a reckless destabilisation of the region.'
The statement urged the international community to take decisive action to deter Israel's ongoing aggression and hold it accountable for actions that threaten both regional and international peace.
Dr. Sanaa Abu Bakr, a political affairs researcher, commented on the significance of Qatar's reaction, saying: 'Qatar's recent statements mark a sharp escalation in tone against Israeli actions. The combination of firm political denunciation and on-the-ground humanitarian efforts puts Qatar in a unique position as both a principled actor and an engaged regional player.'
She further noted that Qatar's stance reflects a realistic reading of regional dynamics, 'but one that does not compromise on core values—support for peoples' rights and opposition to occupation and foreign aggression.'
A strategic vision
for Syria's future
On a broader scale, Qatar continues to reaffirm its comprehensive support for Syria, engaging in regional and international initiatives aimed at securing freedom, development, and dignity for the Syrian people. Doha's position remains unwavering in advocating for Syria's unity, sovereignty, and independence, as well as the establishment of a rule-of-law-based state.
Dr. Khaled Hammad added, 'Qatar offers a third path amid polarised regional approaches to Syria. It does not endorse military interventions, nor does it remain silent in the face of violations. Instead, it champions peaceful solutions rooted in development, mutual respect, and institutional legitimacy.'
A long-term commitment to shared stability
Through its integrated approach, diplomatic, humanitarian, and strategic, Qatar reaffirms that it stands not merely with governments, but with people. Its commitment to Syria is not seasonal or opportunistic; it is a reflection of a long-term vision that understands Syria's stability as essential to the region's future.
As the Middle East navigates through an era of uncertainty and transition, Qatar's balanced and principled engagement with Syria may well serve as a model for responsible diplomacy in a fractured world.