The meeting brought together Badr Abdelatty, Ishaq Dar and Hakan Fidan, who reviewed the evolving security situation and emphasized support for efforts aimed at achieving a permanent ceasefire, according to an official statement.

Participants welcomed Pakistan’s mediation role in ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that diplomatic progress would help de-escalate tensions and limit broader economic and security fallout.Recent developments have raised expectations of a breakthrough.

A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, alongside Iran’s decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz during a temporary truce, have eased pressure on global energy markets and reduced immediate risks of escalation.The conflict, which began on Feb. 28 with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, had disrupted shipping routes and triggered volatility in global oil supplies.

The reopening of the strait long a key U.S. demand—combined with a ceasefire extension linked to Lebanon, has aligned core conditions in ongoing talks.Donald Trump said on Friday that negotiations with Tehran were nearing completion, describing a deal as “very close” and indicating that most major issues had already been resolved.

Previous talks led by J.D. Vance in Pakistan did not produce an agreement, but further negotiations are expected as diplomatic channels remain active.Trump also credited regional actors including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar for supporting stabilization efforts, while praising Shehbaz Sharif and Asim Munir for their role in facilitating dialogue.

The Antalya meeting reflects intensified regional coordination as governments seek to consolidate recent gains and move toward a broader settlement that could end hostilities and restore stability across the Middle East.

Ishaq Dar said after meetings with regional counterparts that Islamabad was ready to facilitate “meaningful talks” toward a “comprehensive and lasting settlement,” including potential U.S.-Iran negotiations. It was not immediately clear whether either side had agreed to participate.

Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf accused Washington of signalling openness to diplomacy while preparing for military escalation, saying Tehran would not accept demands amounting to surrender.U.S. officials have not publicly confirmed any agreement to attend talks.

Reports cited by U.S. media indicate the Pentagon is assessing options that could include ground operations, though no final decision has been announced by Donald Trump.

Discussions among regional powers, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt, have focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, where Iranian restrictions on shipping since late February have disrupted global oil flows.

The conflict has driven oil prices sharply higher and intensified risks to maritime trade, with additional threats emerging near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait following attacks by Iran-aligned Houthi forces.

Israel said it carried out more than 140 air strikes across Iran over a 24-hour period, targeting missile infrastructure and other sites. Iranian media reported damage to Mehrabad airport in Tehran and a petrochemical facility in Tabriz.

Missile and drone exchanges have extended beyond Iran, with strikes reported in southern Israel near Beersheba and damage to industrial facilities in Gulf states including the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.

The International Atomic Energy Agency said Iran’s heavy water production plant at Khondab had suffered severe damage and was no longer operational, though it contained no declared nuclear material.

The U.S. military has begun deploying thousands of Marines to the region, with the first contingent arriving aboard an amphibious assault ship, according to official statements.

Washington last week proposed a ceasefire framework that included reopening Hormuz and limiting Iran’s nuclear programme, but Tehran rejected the plan.

The conflict has triggered domestic political divisions in the United States, with protests reported in multiple cities and lawmakers offering sharply differing views on the war’s trajectory.

Marcos told reporters he had consulted counterparts across the 10-member bloc on whether to postpone the gathering, but leaders agreed that coordination was more critical given the external shocks affecting fuel supply chains, food prices and migrant workers.

“The consensus that we came to is that it is precisely now that we must coordinate our efforts,” Marcos said.

The streamlined agenda will concentrate on immediate economic pressures facing Southeast Asia, including volatility in energy markets and rising food costs, which governments in the region are monitoring closely as geopolitical tensions persist.

ASEAN economies are particularly sensitive to fluctuations in global fuel prices due to their reliance on imports, while supply chain disruptions have added strain to domestic inflation dynamics in several member states.

Marcos said discussions would also address the welfare of migrant workers, a key issue for ASEAN countries that rely heavily on overseas employment. Regional governments have been assessing the impact of instability in the Middle East, a major destination for Southeast Asian labour.

The Philippine government has already flagged concerns about overseas workers in affected areas, reflecting broader anxieties across ASEAN about potential displacement and income disruptions.

The decision to proceed with the summit underscores ASEAN’s preference for continuity in regional dialogue despite global uncertainty. Marcos indicated that postponement was considered but ultimately rejected in favour of maintaining diplomatic engagement.

The summit is expected to retain core leadership interactions while scaling back ceremonial and extended policy sessions, reflecting what Marcos described as a need for efficiency under current conditions.

Public statements and media reports suggest a more measured phase, as officials emphasize legal review processes and stability-focused approaches.

Developments gained attention after remarks from the United States highlighted expectations that severe measures linked to recent demonstrations may not proceed.

These remarks were followed by Iranian media clarifying that certain individuals detained during protests are not facing capital punishment under existing legal provisions.

Observers note that such clarifications have contributed to calmer market sentiment, with commodity prices adjusting as immediate fears of escalation softened.

This reaction reflects how closely global markets track geopolitical signals and statements related to regional stability.

Inside Iran, people contacted by international media indicated that street demonstrations appeared to have slowed in recent days.

Limited internet access has made independent verification difficult, but anecdotal accounts point to reduced public gatherings compared to earlier periods.

Iranian officials have also spoken about addressing underlying economic concerns that contributed to public dissatisfaction

These include efforts to improve purchasing power, manage currency pressures, and strengthen oversight mechanisms within the economy.

Analysts say that a focus on economic management and administrative reform can play a role in restoring confidence among citizens.

Such measures are often viewed as practical steps to stabilize daily life and reduce social strain over time.

Diplomatic messaging from multiple sides has emphasized observation and dialogue rather than immediate action.

This tone has been interpreted as an attempt to allow internal processes to unfold without additional external pressure.

Regional actors have also expressed interest in avoiding further instability, underlining the importance of restraint and communication.

Maintaining calm in a strategically sensitive region is widely seen as beneficial for broader economic and security interests.

Experts on Middle Eastern affairs suggest that while challenges remain, the situation does not indicate imminent systemic disruption.

Instead, they describe a complex environment where governance, public expectations, and international scrutiny intersect.

Market responses following recent statements indicate how political developments can influence investor sentiment.

Oil and precious metal prices showed adjustments consistent with reduced short-term risk perceptions.

International observers continue to monitor developments closely, particularly legal proceedings connected to recent events.

Transparency and clarity around such processes are often cited as key factors in sustaining stability.

The broader situation highlights the interconnected nature of domestic policy, public response, and international reaction.

Small shifts in tone or policy communication can have outsized effects across borders and markets.

For many analysts, the current phase represents a pause marked by cautious observation rather than decisive resolution.

They note that continued engagement and economic focus may shape the direction of events in the coming weeks.

Overall, the latest signals suggest an emphasis on de-escalation and administrative review.

Such an approach is viewed as supportive of steadier conditions both domestically and regionally.

Her name surfaced prominently after U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Rodríguez had assumed the presidency, a claim that has added new layers of uncertainty to an already fluid situation.

Official confirmation from Venezuelan authorities has remained unclear, fueling speculation about leadership arrangements and transitional authority.

Despite the ambiguity, Rodríguez’s long-standing role within the country’s power structure makes her a pivotal figure in any immediate political scenario.

Born in Caracas in 1969, Delcy Rodríguez comes from a deeply political family background rooted in leftist activism.

Her father, Jorge Antonio Rodríguez, was a prominent revolutionary figure whose legacy shaped her ideological outlook and early political identity.

Trained as a lawyer at the Central University of Venezuela, Rodríguez entered public service with a strong grounding in constitutional and political affairs.

Her rapid rise through government ranks reflected both loyalty to the ruling movement and an ability to navigate complex institutional environments.

Rodríguez first gained national prominence as communications and information minister, a role that placed her at the center of state messaging during turbulent years.

She later served as foreign minister, becoming a familiar face on the international stage during a period of growing diplomatic isolation.

Her tenure was marked by confrontational diplomacy and firm defense of Venezuela’s sovereignty against external pressure.

She played a visible role in regional disputes, including tense engagements with South American trade blocs.

In 2017, Rodríguez assumed leadership of the Constituent Assembly, an institution that significantly expanded executive authority.

The move solidified her reputation as a trusted enforcer of the government’s political strategy.

Her appointment as vice president in 2018 further strengthened her influence across multiple branches of the state.

In addition to the vice presidency, Rodríguez took on the powerful roles of finance and oil minister, placing her at the heart of economic decision-making.

This concentration of authority allowed her to shape policy responses during one of Venezuela’s most severe economic crises.

Unlike some ideological hardliners, Rodríguez backed pragmatic measures aimed at stabilizing inflation and restoring limited confidence in the private sector.

Her approach reflected a blend of political loyalty and economic realism amid shrinking resources and sanctions pressure.

Internationally, Rodríguez has been a vocal critic of U.S. sanctions, framing them as economic warfare against the Venezuelan population.

She has consistently rejected allegations of authoritarianism, arguing that Venezuela’s challenges stem from foreign interference.

Her public image combines political toughness with personal flair, often noted for her high-profile fashion choices alongside forceful rhetoric.

These contrasting traits have made her both a symbol of continuity and a subject of intense scrutiny.

Recent reports about her possible location abroad have further complicated the narrative around leadership succession.

Calls for proof of life regarding Maduro underscored the uncertainty surrounding the transition process.

As Venezuela stands at a crossroads, Rodríguez’s experience positions her as a key actor during any interim phase.

Supporters see her as a stabilizing figure capable of maintaining institutional control during disruption.

Critics question whether her leadership would represent meaningful change or an extension of existing power structures.

The coming weeks will determine whether Rodríguez plays a temporary role or becomes a defining figure in Venezuela’s next chapter.

Her actions could influence negotiations, governance reform, and international engagement during a critical period.

For now, Delcy Rodríguez remains central to Venezuela’s unfolding political story, embodying both continuity and uncertainty at a historic moment.

Despite ongoing exchanges between the two militaries in disputed areas, Thai officials underscored that diplomatic channels remain open and active, with Prime Minister Anutin set to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump to provide a direct update on the situation and explore avenues for de-escalation.

The call is expected to center on reaffirming Thailand’s commitment to dialogue while ensuring the safety and sovereignty of its territory. The Thai leadership has stressed that the priority remains to end hostilities and create space for peaceful negotiation, supported by regional allies and long-standing international relationships.

Cambodia has likewise expressed readiness for communication, with officials stating that they remain open to discussions at any time. The growing international attention has encouraged both sides to consider less confrontational approaches, despite tensions and accusations exchanged over the past week.

The United States has conveyed strong interest in helping restore stability, noting the importance of safeguarding Southeast Asia’s long-term peace and economic resilience. Trump has expressed confidence that diplomatic outreach can guide both countries back toward a cessation of hostilities and renewed cooperation.

Thai officials highlighted the importance of conveying accurate information to global partners, reassuring allies that Thailand remains committed to maintaining order while seeking solutions that prevent further humanitarian impact. This engagement is seen as essential for protecting regional development and trade routes shared by both nations.

Despite military activity in several areas, senior Thai leaders reiterated that any strategic action taken has been grounded in the responsibility to safeguard lives and maintain national security. At the same time, they emphasized their openness to efforts that reduce confrontation and encourage dialogue.

Thai diplomats have been actively speaking with international counterparts, reinforcing that Thailand supports peaceful conflict resolution grounded in sincerity, accountability, and respect for borders. These diplomatic exchanges have helped spotlight the shared regional interest in minimizing disruptions that could affect economic recovery and cross-border cooperation.

In Cambodia, government representatives noted that their leadership remains receptive to communication, with officials reaffirming willingness to participate in discussions that lower tensions and protect civilians on both sides. Their statements have added to optimism that renewed dialogue is possible with sufficient international support.

The situation has displaced thousands of families, but relief teams in border provinces are working to ensure access to food, shelter, and medical care. Local communities expressed hope that the increasing diplomatic momentum will soon bring stability and enable them to return home safely.

Thailand’s political landscape has also shifted, with the prime minister dissolving parliament ahead of an upcoming election. Though this adds uncertainty, analysts believe democratic processes can strengthen national unity during a difficult moment and reinforce public confidence in peaceful governance.

As both nations face the challenges of conflict, economic pressure, and shifting political dynamics, officials from Thailand, Cambodia, and the United States continue to highlight the importance of restraint, communication, and constructive partnership. With active diplomacy underway, there is cautious optimism that tensions can ease and that both countries will return to cooperation and shared prosperity.

The Crown Prince stressed the importance of ending the humanitarian suffering of Palestinians, ensuring a complete Israeli withdrawal, and advancing peace efforts in line with the two-state solution.

The cabinet reaffirmed the Kingdom’s support for ongoing regional and international initiatives aimed at strengthening global security and fostering sustainable peace.

Alongside international diplomacy, the council reviewed domestic initiatives focused on enhancing public services, improving productivity, and supporting sustainable growth.

Officials highlighted progress on government programs designed to deliver innovative solutions and benefit citizens across the Kingdom.

A key highlight was the launch of the King Salman Gate Project in Makkah, a transformative infrastructure initiative aimed at improving the experience for visitors to the Grand Mosque.

The project represents the Kingdom’s commitment to combining modern development with cultural and spiritual excellence.

Housing and real estate development were also central to the discussions. The cabinet reviewed strategies to expand housing supply, achieve market balance, and provide citizens with diverse housing options. These measures aim to attract investors, support urban growth, and enhance economic stability.

The council also celebrated Saudi Arabia’s recent achievements in education, rural development, and transport, reflecting the Kingdom’s dedication to innovation and global best practices.

The Saudi International Railway Exhibition and Conference further demonstrated this commitment, bringing together participants from over 20 countries and facilitating more than 50 agreements supporting the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services.

The Crown Prince emphasized that these initiatives reflect a balanced approach, combining leadership in global humanitarian issues with tangible progress in national development.

By addressing urgent needs abroad and advancing infrastructure and housing at home, Saudi Arabia continues to enhance quality of life for citizens while reinforcing its international influence.

Officials underscored that these efforts align with Vision 2030, promoting sustainable development, economic diversification, and international collaboration.

By integrating domestic growth with diplomatic engagement, the Kingdom aims to maintain its role as a proactive and responsible global actor, driving progress on multiple fronts.

Saudi Arabia’s achievements in diplomacy, infrastructure, and innovation demonstrate its commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity.

The government’s focus on both humanitarian leadership and domestic development exemplifies a forward-looking strategy that positions the Kingdom as a regional and international leader in governance, innovation, and social progress.

The visit is being viewed as a positive step toward rebuilding strategic cooperation and ensuring regional stability following a period of significant change in Syria’s leadership.

According to government and foreign ministry officials, President Sharaa is expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin and hold wide-ranging discussions covering investment, defense, and the future of Russian military bases in Syria.

This marks Sharaa’s first official visit to Russia since assuming the presidency following the December overthrow of former Syrian leader Bashar Assad. The trip highlights a new chapter in Syria-Russia relations—one that focuses on partnership, stability, and reconstruction rather than conflict.

A senior government official told AFP that the visit will include Syria’s foreign minister and a delegation of senior military and economic officials.

“The agenda will cover economic cooperation, investment opportunities, and the reorganization of the Syrian military,” the official said. “President Sharaa’s goal is to reaffirm Syria’s friendship with Russia while also setting the stage for balanced and mutually beneficial relations.”

Another foreign ministry official confirmed that discussions will also focus on the continued presence and modernization of Russia’s naval base in Tartus and its air base in Hmeimim.

Both bases, located on Syria’s Mediterranean coast, have historically been vital components of Moscow’s strategic presence in the Middle East.

The official noted that the talks would aim to “ensure continued cooperation while aligning the military partnership with Syria’s current priorities of peace and reconstruction.”

Russia’s Tartus naval base and Hmeimim air base remain symbols of long-standing Russian-Syrian cooperation.

These facilities were crucial during Russia’s intervention in the Syrian conflict in 2015, but under the new administration, their role is expected to evolve toward supporting regional security, maritime trade, and joint counterterrorism efforts.

Observers see Sharaa’s Moscow visit as an important signal of continuity and pragmatism in Syria’s foreign policy.

While the new Syrian government has sought to reshape its international relationships, it remains committed to maintaining stable and constructive ties with major global powers, especially Russia.

This diplomatic approach reflects Syria’s renewed focus on sovereignty, stability, and rebuilding after years of turmoil.

The visit also comes at a time when both nations are exploring opportunities for enhanced economic cooperation. With Syria entering a phase of reconstruction and economic revival, Russia is expected to play a key role in supporting infrastructure projects, energy development, and industrial investments.

“Russia has been a consistent partner, and our goal is to expand that partnership in new areas of growth and innovation,” said an economic official familiar with the discussions.

Although President Sharaa was initially scheduled to attend a Russian-Arab summit this week, the meeting was postponed as several Arab leaders were engaged in overseeing the implementation of the United States’ Gaza ceasefire plan.

Nonetheless, Syrian officials emphasized that bilateral talks between Syria and Russia will proceed as planned, underscoring the strength and importance of the two countries’ relationship.

Syria’s new leadership has shown a clear desire to pursue diplomacy rooted in mutual respect and regional cooperation. Since taking office, President Sharaa has emphasized reconciliation, reconstruction, and international engagement as the pillars of his administration’s policy.

His visit to Moscow aligns with this vision, signaling Syria’s intent to rebuild bridges with allies and contribute positively to peace and development in the region.

Earlier this year, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani visited Moscow to lay the groundwork for deeper cooperation. His visit was followed by a Russian delegation led by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov in January — the first official Russian visit to Damascus after the leadership transition.

These exchanges have paved the way for this week’s high-level talks, which are expected to produce tangible outcomes in defense, trade, and diplomacy.

As Syria looks toward the future, President Sharaa’s Moscow visit represents more than a diplomatic meeting—it is a message of renewal. It reflects a vision for a stable Syria that maintains strong partnerships while pursuing peace and prosperity.

The world will be watching as Damascus and Moscow take steps to strengthen their historic ties and shape a more secure and cooperative future for the Middle East.

According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, “The Prime Minister will hold extensive discussions with President Erdogan on bilateral relations and exchange views on recent regional developments.” The meeting is seen as part of ongoing efforts to elevate the already strong bond between the two nations.

The two leaders last met during the 7th session of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC), held in Islamabad on February 12-13, 2025. This leadership-level forum plays a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of the Pakistan-Türkiye partnership.

One key area of focus is economic collaboration. The two countries signed a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) in August 2022, which grants tariff concessions on select goods. Both sides are now working towards a more ambitious goal—raising bilateral trade to $5 billion and potentially advancing toward a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

In 2023, Pakistan exported goods worth $352.1 million to Türkiye, while importing $250.8 million in return. Key Turkish exports included lead, meat, and artworks, while Pakistan shipped explosives, zinc, meat, and fur skins to its ally.

Though trade volumes are still modest compared to each country’s broader economic landscape, the ongoing dialogue and cooperation signal a strong intent to grow this important relationship.

As PM Sharif meets President Erdoğan in Ankara, all eyes will be on the outcomes that could shape the future of Pakistan-Türkiye relations in the years to come.

Qatar is conducting a multi-pronged, global influence campaign to expand its regional and international clout.

Recently, it was reported that Israeli security officials are investigating the possibility that Qatari elements are behind a wave of online posts in recent weeks designed to cast doubt on the stability of the peace agreement between Israel and Egypt. These posts, widely circulated in Israeli media, focused on Egypt’s military buildup and increased troop deployment in Sinai — a move that could be seen as violating the peace treaty.

However, a civil society group called “Fake Reporter,” which tracks malicious online activity, found a sharp rise in content on social media portraying Egypt as an increasing threat to Israel. Some of the videos and images used to support these claims were actually from an Egyptian military drill held in 2018.

While it’s true that Egypt has been enhancing its military capabilities, it seems there’s a deliberate attempt to frame this as a threat to Israel. The suspicion is that this disinformation campaign may be aimed at weakening Egypt’s role as a mediator, particularly with the U.S., in Middle Eastern affairs — and especially in Gaza-related matters.

If Qatar is indeed behind this disinformation, it would be yet another link in its vast influence network — one that’s drawn increasing attention lately, both due to the potential collapse of the Assad regime in Syria and Qatar’s involvement in mediation efforts around hostage negotiations. In the Israeli context, reports have surfaced about Qatar hiring Israeli PR experts — including advisors to Netanyahu — to improve its image in global public opinion and in the Jewish world.

This isn’t a new tactic for the small Gulf emirate. While research on influence campaigns over the past decade has focused mostly on Russia, China, and Iran, Qatar has largely flown under the radar — unjustly so. A series of investigations by Reuters since 2019 exposed “Project Raven,” a secret UAE-led operation that hired former NSA agents to spy on targets in Turkey, France, Yemen, Iran, Qatar, and Israel.

Leaked information from that project revealed the extent of Qatar’s global influence operations — supporting both terrorist groups and friendly regimes in the West, while also working to destabilize governments across the Arab world.

For example, Qatar played a role in toppling Gaddafi’s regime in Libya and was the first to recognize the rebel government. It also supported Tunisia’s post-revolution regime after the fall of Ben Ali, and has actively backed Syrian rebels with weapons and funding. Traditionally, Qatar has pursued a proactive agenda in the Arab world and has recently intensified efforts to position itself as a leader of the Sunni world. To that end, it engages in various influence channels:

Influence Among Decision Makers

Qatar commonly uses financial incentives to sway influencers and policymakers. Beyond the bribery scandals uncovered in Project Raven, French authorities recently indicted Nasser Al-Khelaifi — a senior official in Qatar’s Investment Authority and president of Paris Saint-Germain football club — for allegedly using bribes to manipulate business decisions.

Similarly, U.S. Senator Bob Menendez was accused of accepting bribes from both Qatar and Egypt to advance their interests. Qatar also funds trips for politicians and journalists to Doha — a form of soft power. In 2018, federal investigations began in the U.S. into whether lobbyists and former government officials working for Qatar had violated lobbying laws. That year, 250 people close to President Trump were flown to Doha at Qatar’s expense. Likewise, Rep. Ilhan Omar was flown to Qatar during the 2022 World Cup, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer admitted to a similar Qatar-sponsored trip when he was still a member of Parliament.

Just last week, the European Network of Aviation Associations (ENAA) warned the EU’s transport department about a possible aviation deal with Qatar, raising corruption concerns.

Financial Influence

Qatar’s wealth oils the wheels of influence in the U.S. Congress — with reports in 2018 showing that 59 members received donations from Qatar. Think tanks in Washington also benefit, making Qatar a major funder of those who whisper in the ears of decision-makers. In 2022, it was revealed that Gen. John Allen, then-president of the Brookings Institution, was under investigation for secretly lobbying for Qatar after retiring from the military — earning over $1 million in fees. He worked alongside Richard Olson, former U.S. ambassador to Pakistan and the UAE, who admitted to participating in the lobbying campaign.

“Qatargate” Scandal in Europe

The Qatargate scandal in the European Parliament revealed that, starting in 2019, Qatar paid Italian MEP Antonio Panzeri and Greek EU Vice President Eva Kaili in exchange for favorable votes. This led to greater scrutiny in Europe over parliamentarians’ trips to Qatar and prompted ethics committees to enhance oversight and limit Qatari influence.

Western Assets and Public Opinion

Qatar also secures influence through investments. It holds major stakes in European corporations like Porsche. Its massive investment in building the U.S. air base at Al-Udeid made it the largest American military base in the Middle East. Qatar also targets American public opinion — in spring 2020, it donated millions in COVID-19 aid to families in Los Angeles, Charleston (South Carolina), and other U.S. cities.

Influence Through Sports

Qatar places immense importance on sports as a tool for influence. Hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup was the result of a massive lobbying effort — including hiring Israeli PR experts. The campaign continues, with recent reports of Qatari investors aiming to buy the English football club Tottenham and launching their bid to host the 2027 Basketball World Cup. During the 2024 Paris Olympics, Qatari leaders, including the Emir, were prominent guests at the opening ceremony, and Al-Khelaifi even carried the Olympic torch.

Diplomatic Influence

Qatar invests heavily in its image as a regional mediator. Both the Biden and Trump administrations praised its efforts in negotiating the release of American hostages from the Taliban. Doha values this role so highly that its diplomats frequently emphasize Qatar’s neutrality. For instance, the Qatari ambassador to the U.S. wrote op-eds in The Wall Street Journal and Newsweek framing Qatar as an honest broker. Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson has echoed this narrative in numerous interviews, including with Israeli outlets like Haaretz and Channel 12. Journalists from The Jerusalem Post and Kan 11 have even been invited to Doha.

Influence in Education

A 2022 study by the U.S. National Association of Scholars revealed that between 2001 and 2021, Qatar donated $4.7 billion to American universities — including Cornell, Georgetown, and Carnegie Mellon — in return for opening Doha branches. Sometimes, this came with conditions, like removing certain course content or cooperating with Qatari media like Al Jazeera. Texas A&M alone received $404 million between 2015 and 2023. (The university has announced plans to shut its Doha campus by 2027 — a move publicly criticized by the U.S. ambassador to Qatar.)

Qatar has become the largest foreign donor to U.S. universities, often without proper disclosure, and a 2020 ISGAP study found a correlation between Qatari funding and pro-Palestinian activism on American campuses.

Supporting Terror-Linked Groups Under a Humanitarian Disguise

Qatar often masks its support for terror-linked entities as humanitarian aid. To retain influence in Gaza, Qatar insisted on delivering aid during the early 2025 ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, including fuel and bulldozers. It pledged $100 million to UNRWA, with $4.5 million earmarked for operations in the West Bank. Qatar also funneled money to Hezbollah through “charities” that provide food, medicine, and education — and used similar “humanitarian” ventures to build ties with the Houthis in Yemen and the Taliban in Afghanistan.

Media Influence

Qatar’s media arm, Al Jazeera, plays a major role in shaping public opinion. It’s the most popular English-language news network in the world after CNN and BBC — and has been accused of acting as a mouthpiece for Hamas and other Islamist groups. Since its founding in 1996, Al Jazeera has provided a platform for Muslim Brotherhood leaders and broadcast divisive content about the Arab world.

Its various branches, including AJ+ in the U.S., continue to influence global narratives. In Gaza, several Al Jazeera journalists were recently found to be affiliated with Hamas and Islamic Jihad, and the channel actively promoted staged events involving Israeli hostages.

Conclusion

Qatar is conducting a multi-pronged, global influence campaign to expand its regional and international clout. Through its vast network of soft power — in diplomacy, media, education, finance, and humanitarian aid — Qatar has become a key player in global affairs. Israel’s current dependence on Qatari mediation regarding hostages forces it to tolerate, and even flatter, one of Hamas’s primary funders — without whom the October 7th attack may not have happened. Qatar is now also helping Hamas recover.

This case illustrates the sophistication of Qatar’s influence strategy — and the urgent need to monitor and defend against it.

Translated in English from Jerusalem Institute of Strategic Studies.