Qatar and the United States are nearing the finalization of an enhanced defense cooperation agreement, according to top U.S. diplomat Marco Rubio. This announcement follows Israel’s attack on Hamas leaders in Doha, which has drawn widespread criticism.
“Our partnership with Qatar is strong. We are close to finalizing an enhanced defense cooperation agreement,” Rubio stated while on his way from Tel Aviv to Doha. During his visit, he met with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to discuss defense matters, as confirmed by Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari.
Al Ansari emphasized that the Israeli attack has accelerated the need for a new strategic defense agreement between Qatar and the United States, highlighting that while not new, the urgency has increased.
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Qatar hosts largest US base in the Middle East
The Israeli attack in Doha is particularly sensitive since Qatar is a key U.S. ally and hosts the largest U.S. military base in the region. Qatar, along with Egypt, has been mediating ceasefire talks since the Gaza conflict began nearly two years ago. Al Ansari stated that their priority is to protect Qatari sovereignty, delaying other issues until this is resolved.
The Amiri Diwan reported that the emir discussed with Rubio the future of joint diplomatic efforts to secure a Gaza ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners.
Trump discontent with Israeli strike
U.S. President Donald Trump, during a May visit to Doha, assured that the U.S. would protect Qatar if attacked. He expressed dissatisfaction with Israel’s strike, noting it didn’t serve U.S. or Israeli interests, and reassured Qatari leaders that such actions wouldn’t repeat.
Rubio urged Qatar to continue mediating between Israel and Hamas to achieve a ceasefire, noting a limited timeframe for a possible agreement. “Qatar is uniquely positioned to mediate,” Rubio stated, departing Tel Aviv for Doha.
Despite calling the Israeli strike “cowardly and treacherous,” Qatar affirmed its commitment to mediation, alongside Egypt and the U.S. Netanyahu, in a press conference with Rubio, threatened further action against Hamas leaders, while Arab and Islamic states backed Qatar.
