Lekhwiya: The Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) and the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs have signed a cooperation framework to host and organize the 2026 search and rescue exercise (USAR) in Qatar in October 2026.
According to Qatar News Agency, the signing took place in the presence of HE Deputy Commander of Lekhwiya Major General Mohammed Mesfer Al Shahwani. The agreement was signed by Assistant Commander of Lekhwiya for Administration and Supply Brig. Mubarak Sherida Al Kaabi on behalf of Lekhwiya, and by HE INSARAG Global Chair Ambassador Dominik Stillhart.
The cooperation framework is designed to enhance the readiness and response capabilities of international search and rescue teams. It aims to improve coordination and operational efficiency through joint planning and execution of the exercise in line with INSARAG's internationally recognized methodology. The framework also outlines the development of the exercise's objectives, scenarios, and evaluation mechanisms.
The selection of the State of Qatar to host this global exercise serves as a confirmation of its role in humanitarian work, the capability of the internationally ranked Qatari International Search and Rescue Group, and its status as an active partner in the UN system to address major challenges and crises.