At the invitation of the Diplomatic Institute, and in cooperation with the Global Institute for Strategic Research (GISR) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University, a panel discussion entitled “The Struggle of Powers over Maritime Straits in the Middle East: Implications for Energy Flows, International Economic Stability, and Strategic Alternatives” was held with the participation of:

• Dr. Mohammed Ali Shihi

• Dr. Al-Hafiz Ibrahim Ahmed

• Dr. Rashid Aarab

The discussion addressed regional and international competition over the strategic maritime straits of the Middle East, particularly the Straits of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, and its impact on energy security, global trade, and economic stability. It also explored potential strategic alternatives for the Gulf states, especially Qatar, to enhance the resilience of energy flows and reduce dependence on maritime chokepoints.

The session aimed to examine the rivalry among major powers over strategic maritime straits and its effects on energy security and the global economy, while reviewing its implications for the Gulf states and Qatar, as well as available future alternatives.

The event was attended by a number of Qatari diplomats from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in addition to representatives of the State’s diplomatic missions abroad.