Qatar University Fall 2026 Readiness: Qatar University says it is fully prepared for the Fall 2026 semester, with academic, administrative and student support services in place for its current 30,000 enrolled students, including advising, counseling, learning support and career development. Regional Diplomacy on Syria: Qatar and 11 other Arab and Muslim countries condemned Israeli strikes on Syria’s Abu al-Duhur military airbase, calling them an “extreme escalation” and a violation of Syria’s sovereignty, urging concrete international steps and withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied areas. Palestine Settlements—E1 Rejection: Qatar joined foreign ministers from multiple Arab and Islamic states in rejecting Israel’s “E1” settlement plan, warning it threatens contiguity of the occupied Palestinian territory and the viability of a contiguous Palestinian state, and calling for urgent action including sanctions. US-Iran Pressure and Hormuz Risk: US moves to tighten sanctions on Iran and rhetoric about controlling strategic straits keep regional shipping and energy markets in focus, with Gulf states repeatedly linking stability to Hormuz reopening and de-escalation. Qatar-Energy Project Procurement Watch: Two major contractors are emerging for EPIC packages in QatarEnergy’s Maydan Mahzam redevelopment, including EPIC-1 and EPIC-2 works tied to new platforms and wells. Sports & Community: ICAI Doha Chapter hosted its 5th badminton tournament, while Qatar also continues cultural and sports participation, including international events and local competitions.