Lekhwiya signs cooperation framework to host and organise 2026 search and rescue exercise
The Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs’ International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) signed a cooperation framework to host and organize the 2026 Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) exercise in Qatar in October 2026.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Lekhwiya Deputy Commander HE Major General Mohammed Mesfer Al Shahwani by Assistant Commander for Administration and Supply Brig. Mubarak Sherida Al Kaabi on behalf of Lekhwiya and INSARAG Global Chair Ambassador Dominik Stillhart.
The framework aims to strengthen the readiness and response capabilities of international search and rescue teams and enhance coordination and operational efficiency through joint planning and implementation of the exercise in line with INSARAG’s internationally recognized methodology.
It also covers the development of the exercise’s objectives, scenarios and evaluation mechanisms.
Qatar’s selection to host the global exercise reflects its prominent role in humanitarian work, the capabilities of the internationally ranked Qatari International Search and Rescue Group, and its contribution as an active partner within the UN system in addressing major challenges and crises.
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