New york: The State of Qatar underscored the critical importance of protecting food security and bolstering the resilience of nations vulnerable to food insecurity during a recent United Nations Security Council debate. Sheikha Alia Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, Qatar's Permanent Representative to the UN, articulated these concerns at the open debate titled "Food Under Fire: The Role of the Security Council in Mitigating Global and Local Food Crises," held at the UN Headquarters. According to Union of OIC News Agencies, Sheikha Al Thani highlighted that, eight years following the adoption of Security Council Resolution 2417 (2018), armed conflicts remain a significant driver of food insecurity. These conflicts result in the destruction of food systems, disruption of trade and energy flows, closure of transport routes, and obstruction of humanitarian access. Furthermore, she emphasized that hunger exacerbates instability, necessitating adherence to prohibitions against using starvation as a method of warfare and t he protection of essential resources for civilian survival. Sheikha Al Thani pointed out recent global instances of food insecurity, citing the Gaza Strip as a prime example of the human suffering resulting from armed conflicts. She stated that Qatar continues to play a vital role in facilitating the implementation of a comprehensive peace plan in Gaza and a ceasefire agreement, in collaboration with Egypt, the United States, and Turkey. She stressed the importance of delivering aid safely and without hindrance to all areas of Gaza, advocating for the full implementation of the peace plan endorsed by Security Council Resolution 2803 (2025) to end the conflict, reconstruct the region, and achieve a lasting peace based on Palestinian self-determination and a two-state solution. Sheikha Al Thani also drew attention to the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, illustrating how regional conflicts can impact global food security. The ongoing closure of the strait threatens regional interests and the global economy b y disrupting maritime trade, leading to increased costs and affecting fertilizer and food markets. She reaffirmed Qatar's stance that freedom of navigation through this crucial corridor is non-negotiable and that restoring navigation in accordance with international law and Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026) is imperative. Qatar's priority, she noted, is to contain escalation and reopen diplomatic channels. As a mediator, Qatar aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz promptly and insists that any future arrangements regarding its management should be based on regional consensus and international law to ensure regional security and stability. Sheikha Al Thani emphasized Qatar's commitment to global food security through tangible support to alleviate the impact of conflicts on civilians, enhancing community resilience in Gaza and other regions. These efforts are part of Qatar's broader humanitarian initiatives aimed at reducing food insecurity. In conclusion, She affirmed Qatar's ongoing collaboration with UN partners to provide humanitarian aid and support food systems. Qatar remains dedicated to addressing the root causes of conflict through preventive diplomacy, conflict prevention, and peaceful resolution, alongside its active involvement in peacebuilding efforts.