Qatar's Minister of State Honored with 2026 'Hostage Freedom Award'

Dr. Mohammed Al-Khulaifi recognized for his pivotal role in securing hostage releases across multiple conflict zones.

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Qatar's Minister of State Honored with 2026 'Hostage Freedom Award'

Qatar’s Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al-Khulaifi, has been awarded the 2026 American "Hostage Freedom Award" by the James Foley Foundation in recognition of his diplomatic efforts to secure the release of hostages held in conflict zones around the world.

The announcement, made by Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on October 20, 2025, highlights Dr. Al-Khulaifi’s contributions to humanitarian diplomacy under Qatar’s global mediation efforts.

According to a statement by the James Foley Foundation on its official website, “His Excellency, in his capacity as Chief Negotiator, played a decisive role in securing the release of Americans held hostage in Afghanistan, Iran, Gaza, and Venezuela.”

The Foundation emphasized that Dr. Al-Khulaifi’s expertise has been vital in “opening channels of dialogue when all other paths are blocked, building bridges of trust, and guiding negotiation tracks in the most challenging cases.”

It further noted that the Qatari Minister’s ability to facilitate communication and humanitarian solutions has proven crucial, particularly in instances where the United States lacked formal diplomatic relations with the countries involved.

The statement added, “His Excellency’s work embodies the role played by the State of Qatar as a trusted mediator and affirms the strength of diplomacy in serving peace and preserving human dignity.”

This award reinforces Qatar’s reputation as a key player in international mediation and conflict resolution, underscoring its commitment to humanitarian causes and peaceful negotiation across borders.

Foley Foundation Awards Qatari Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs @Dr_Al_Khulaifi with 2026 American "Hostage Freedom Award”#MOFAQatar pic.twitter.com/OwwGPi1VAv
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Qatar (@MofaQatar_EN) October 20, 2025

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Qatar's Minister of State Honored with 2026 'Hostage Freedom Award'

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