U.S. President Donald Trump has vowed to consider any armed aggression against Qatar as a danger to the security of the United States, as per an official publication on Wednesday indicating that U.S. military forces might intervene to protect the Middle Eastern country. Qatar expressed appreciation for Trump’s directive, hailing it as a significant step in fortifying defense alliances and bilateral collaboration, as stated by its Foreign Ministry.
The new executive order, which signifies a heightened U.S. commitment to Qatar, follows Israel’s recent attempt to assassinate Hamas leaders in Doha through an airstrike last month. This strike, conducted without prior notice to the Trump administration, raised concerns in Washington due to the close relationship between the U.S. and Qatar, where the largest U.S. military base in the region is located.
The order, dated Monday, coincided with Trump hosting Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House to propose a resolution for the Gaza conflict. Qatar has played a pivotal role in mediating discussions between the U.S., Israel, and Hamas concerning the conflict.
According to the order, any armed assault on Qatar’s territory, sovereignty, or critical infrastructure will be considered a threat to the peace and security of the United States. The U.S. is committed to employing all lawful and appropriate measures, including diplomatic, economic, and potentially military actions, to safeguard its interests and those of Qatar and to restore peace and stability in the event of an attack.
Top U.S. defense and intelligence officials will collaborate with Qatar to ensure swift responses to any potential attacks, as outlined in the document. However, the order faced criticism upon its public release. Laura Loomer, a prominent figure on social media and known for her right-wing views, expressed concerns about the commitment to Qatar’s defense. The Wall Street Journal’s editorial board also questioned the decision, emphasizing the lack of public debate preceding the executive order.
Saudi Arabia has been seeking similar security guarantees as part of efforts to normalize relations between Riyadh and Israel, but such an arrangement has yet to materialize. Last month, Saudi Arabia entered into a mutual defense agreement with Pakistan, a nuclear-armed nation.
While the president can negotiate collective defense pacts, such agreements require Senate approval to become law. An executive order, like the one issued by Trump, can be revoked by any future U.S. president, leaving uncertainties about the U.S.’s commitment. Trump’s directive surpasses a 2022 order by his predecessor Joe Biden, which designated Qatar as a major non-NATO ally, allowing for increased military cooperation but stopping short of a defense guarantee.
Despite the commitment to Qatar’s defense, there was no U.S. military response when Qatar faced an attack by Iran in June following a U.S. strike on Iranian nuclear facilities. The Trump administration accepted a luxury Boeing 747 jetliner from Qatar in May, intended for use as a new Air Force One to transport the president, disregarding legal and ethical concerns regarding the plane’s transfer.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Doha post the Israeli strike and mentioned finalizing an enhanced defense cooperation agreement with Qatar.
