Sat Feb 07 10:22:51 UTC 2026: ### Doha Forum Warns of Collapsing International Order Amidst Gaza Conflict

The Story:

The 17th Al Jazeera Forum in Doha has sounded alarms over Israel’s military actions in Gaza and their wider geopolitical implications. Senior political figures, including Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, condemned the conflict as “genocide” and warned that it is accelerating the collapse of international norms and reshaping regional power balances. Speakers highlighted the immense suffering of Palestinians, the targeting of journalists, and the erosion of global governance structures, emphasizing the need for coordinated international action to address the crisis and prevent further destabilization.

Key Points:

  • Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the Palestinian struggle as central to the Middle East and accused Israel of “genocide” in Gaza.
  • Araghchi reported indirect talks with the US in Oman and revealed plans for a second round of discussions. He also warned that Iran would target US forces in the region only if attacked.
  • Sheikh Hamad bin Thamer bin Mohammed Al Thani highlighted the heavy toll on journalists covering the war.
  • Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud warned that the conflict weakens the international order and linked regional instability to tensions in the Red Sea, criticizing Israel’s recognition of Somaliland.
  • Burhanettin Duran from Turkiye’s Directorate of Communications described Israel’s actions as reflecting a deeper transformation of global politics, with genocide becoming a “tolerated reality.”
  • Israel carried out attacks on six countries in 2025: Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Qatar and Iran.

Critical Analysis:

The Doha forum’s discussions reveal a growing consensus among regional actors that Israel’s actions in Gaza are not isolated incidents but part of a broader strategy to reshape the Middle East. Araghchi’s statements about Israel’s “expansionist project” and attacks on multiple nations in 2025 suggest a deliberate effort to weaken neighboring states and maintain regional dominance. The timing of these discussions, shortly before Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s scheduled meeting with Trump on February 11, 2026, regarding Iran talks, suggests regional maneuvering and attempts to influence the international discourse surrounding the conflict. The historical context of “Israel killed international law in Gaza” and the Rafah border reopening with limited traffic highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis and legal debates surrounding Israel’s actions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Gaza conflict is increasingly viewed as a catalyst for broader geopolitical shifts, potentially undermining the established international order.
  • Regional actors are actively seeking to reframe the Palestinian issue as a central strategic concern, necessitating a comprehensive solution based on sovereignty and equality.
  • The safety and protection of journalists covering the conflict remain a critical concern, highlighting the challenges of reporting in conflict zones.
  • The potential for escalation remains high, particularly given the ongoing tensions between Iran and the US, requiring careful diplomatic engagement to prevent further conflict.
  • Israel’s actions are seen by many in the region as undermining regional stability.

Impact Analysis:

The convergence of the Gaza conflict, the erosion of international norms, and escalating regional tensions could have far-reaching consequences. The weakening of the international order, as highlighted by speakers at the Doha forum, could lead to a more volatile and unpredictable global landscape, characterized by increased unilateralism and a diminished capacity to address complex crises. The failure to resolve the Palestinian issue and secure a lasting peace could further fuel regional instability, potentially leading to increased radicalization and conflict. The forum’s call for coordinated international action, including sanctions and legal accountability, underscores the urgent need for a renewed commitment to multilateralism and the principles of international law. The impact on global trade routes due to Red Sea tensions exacerbates the economic and geopolitical challenges associated with the conflict.

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