A former Qatari prime minister has proposed a transformative vision for Gulf security that emphasizes regional peace with Iran, normalized relations in a stable neighborhood including Israel, and alignment with Palestinian Arab rights rather than Israeli hegemonic goals, through enhanced partnerships with Pakistan and Turkey.
ISLAMABAD: A former prime minister of Qatar has outlined an ambitious vision for security in the Gulf Cooperation Council region, calling for partnerships with Pakistan and Turkey to foster a Middle East at peace with Iran and in stable coexistence with Israel, while prioritizing the legitimate rights and interests of Palestinian Arabs over what he described as hegemonic ambitions from Tel Aviv.
The proposal comes amid heightened regional tensions, where traditional reliance on Western security guarantees faces scrutiny following recent conflicts involving Iran and Israel. Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, widely known as HBJ and a key architect of Qatari foreign policy during his tenure, has advocated for a reorientation of GCC priorities toward indigenous alliances that promote de-escalation and mutual respect among major players.
In recent statements, the former leader highlighted the urgent need for strategic defense cooperation beyond conventional frameworks. He pointed to the September 2025 joint strategic defense agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, which Turkey may join, as a foundational step toward preserving regional stability and reinforcing Arab and Muslim solidarity. This pact, he argued, strengthens collective capabilities against shifting international dynamics, particularly changes in United States policy.
Expanding on this, Sheikh Hamad urged the formation of a broader four-nation alliance incorporating Egypt alongside Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan. Such a bloc, he maintained, represents a long-standing necessity to protect shared interests and enhance collective strength amid perceived unreliability in Western alliances. Importantly, he emphasized that this arrangement should not adopt a hostile posture toward Iran, a major Muslim nation, but instead pursue balanced regional considerations to avoid escalation.
This vision aligns with broader calls for a Middle East where peaceful neighborhoods prevail. The former Qatari premier envisions GCC states engaging constructively with Iran to reduce tensions, while fostering conditions for normalized ties with Israel contingent on respect for Palestinian rights. He has critiqued approaches that prioritize Tel Aviv’s ambitions, arguing they undermine prospects for lasting peace and fuel instability.
Recent developments underscore the timeliness of such proposals. The Saudi-Pakistan defense pact emerged against a backdrop of evolving threats, including concerns over external powers reshaping regional boundaries. Analysts note that Pakistan’s military expertise, combined with Gulf financial resources, introduces a deterrent element that could complement GCC efforts without direct confrontation.
Turkey’s potential inclusion adds further depth, given Ankara’s growing role in regional mediation and its emphasis on balanced diplomacy. Egypt’s participation would anchor the alliance in Arab core interests, creating a multifaceted framework capable of addressing diverse security challenges.
The emphasis on Palestinian rights reflects Qatar’s consistent diplomatic stance. Doha has long advocated for a two-state solution based on 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the Palestinian capital, in line with the Arab Peace Initiative and international resolutions. Sheikh Hamad’s proposal integrates this priority, suggesting that true regional peace requires addressing the Palestinian question equitably rather than through dominance.
Observers point out that amid ongoing conflicts, including the fallout from U.S.-Israel actions against Iran, Gulf states increasingly seek alternatives to over-reliance on American security umbrellas. Iranian retaliatory strikes on GCC territories have exposed vulnerabilities in existing defenses, prompting renewed interest in diversified partnerships.
Sheikh Hamad has warned against being drawn into confrontations that benefit external actors, such as scenarios where major powers supply arms to multiple sides while withdrawing direct involvement. His comments reference fears of divide-and-rule strategies that could expand controversial projects at the expense of regional sovereignty.
By advocating peace with Iran and a neighborhood inclusive of Israel under conditions of justice, the proposal seeks to transcend zero-sum dynamics. It envisions GCC leadership in crafting a security architecture rooted in dialogue, mutual deterrence, and respect for sovereignty.
The idea resonates with recent GCC positions emphasizing de-escalation and diplomacy. Ministerial councils have repeatedly called for collective action to end occupations, support Palestinian statehood, and prevent escalation that threatens stability.
Implementation would require sustained diplomatic engagement. Building trust among diverse actors like Iran, Israel, and GCC members demands confidence-building measures, including economic cooperation and conflict resolution forums.
Pakistan and Turkey, with their strategic locations and military capabilities, offer valuable contributions. Pakistan’s nuclear deterrent and Turkey’s NATO membership provide leverage in broader negotiations.
Critics may question feasibility given deep-seated rivalries. Yet proponents argue that evolving threats necessitate innovative approaches beyond traditional alignments.
Sheikh Hamad’s vision positions the GCC as a proactive force for peace, leveraging partnerships to safeguard interests while advancing Palestinian aspirations. As regional dynamics shift, such ideas could influence future security dialogues.
The proposal highlights a path toward stability through inclusion rather than exclusion, offering a framework where peace with Iran coexists with normalized ties to Israel, all anchored in Palestinian rights.