Doha: Under the patronage and presence of HE Minister of Interior and Commander of the Internal Security Force "Lekhwiya," Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the joint tactical exercise of the security agencies of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, titled "Arabian Gulf Security (4)," concluded. The exercise was hosted by Qatar over 11 days and involved security agencies and forces from GCC states, alongside specialized units from the United States.
According to Qatar News Agency, the closing ceremony was attended by high-profile officials, including HH Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of the UAE, Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and other interior ministers and undersecretaries from Bahrain, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. The event also saw the presence of HE Secretary General of the GCC, Jasem Mohammed Al Budaiwi, and HE Vice Admiral Curt Renshaw, Commander of the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command.
The ceremony featured the execution of various security scenarios by the joint GCC security agencies, with participation from U.S. specialized units. These operations highlighted the readiness, professionalism, and advanced capabilities of the forces in responding to security challenges. The exercises underscored the effective coordination among the participating agencies, enhancing joint Gulf security cooperation.
The event commenced with a military parade showcasing the Ministry of Interior and the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya), reflecting the continuous training and integration of different security specializations. The parade was followed by scenarios simulating real security threats, such as confronting unconventional aerial threats, addressing riots, and conducting counterterrorism operations.
Further, the event included a display of vehicles and equipment, demonstrating the specialized capabilities of the GCC forces and their practical integration. A video presentation documented the external scenarios and competitions held among participating states, aiming to enhance team spirit and readiness.
The exercise concluded after intensive fieldwork, with more than 70 training scenarios executed over 260 hours. These activities tested operational plans, improved role integration among leaderships, and raised readiness levels for rapid responses. The exercise is deemed an advanced milestone in Gulf security cooperation, supporting the stability of GCC states.
A concurrent security exhibition at Qatar Mall showcased the field efforts, contributions, and latest security technologies of the participating countries. The exercise aimed to strengthen Gulf security cooperation and enhance readiness in response to evolving security challenges.
Major General Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Suwaidi, head of the organizing committee, praised HE the Minister of Interior for his support and commended the participating forces. The exercise achieved its objectives of strengthening cooperation among GCC states and demonstrated the unity and capability of Gulf forces.
Assistant Undersecretary for Security Affairs Sheikh Naif bin Faleh bin Saud Al-Thani highlighted the exercise's role in exchanging security expertise and enhancing agency efficiency in GCC states. The exercise contributed to joint planning, information exchange, and decision-making, achieving harmony and integration among security agencies.
Lieutenant Colonel Yousef Atiq Al Hamad, Assistant Director of the exercise, emphasized its significance in enhancing readiness and facilitating expertise exchange between GCC agencies and their U.S. counterparts. The exercise marked a leap in professionalism and operational efficiency.