European Union plans defence talks with Qatar and Gulf nations

The European Union is planning to strengthen its defence and security relations with Qatar and neighboring Gulf countries, Euronews reported. Antonino Maggiore, the new European Union ambassador to Qatar, announced the initiative in Doha. Maggiore stated that security remains fundamental in the current geopolitical situation and serves as a mutual interest for both regions. [1]

According to Euronews, the European Union's defence cooperation strategy in Qatar and the wider Gulf region focuses on two primary objectives, including connecting private defence industries. Maggiore added that political and economic ties are also set to deepen, noting that every crisis brings opportunities. [1]

Security concerns in the region follow an event on 9 September 2025, when the Israel Defense Forces launched an airstrike in the Leqtaifiya district of Doha. The strike targeted Hamas leadership meeting in a Qatari government residential complex, resulting in casualties among Hamas members, Qatari security personnel, and civilians. [3]

In a separate regional event, the Gulf Times reported that the crown prince of Brunei departed from Doha on 10 November 2026. [2]