Qatar is one of the most vital allies of the US in the Middle East. When Israel attacked Qatar last week, the US faced significant criticism. President Trump clarified that he was unaware of the attack on Qatar and assured that such incidents would not recur. Following this, all Muslim nations congregated in Doha, Qatar's capital, expressing solidarity against Israel. Amidst this scenario, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Qatar on Tuesday to manage the situation.
During his Qatar visit, Rubio met with the country's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. Prior to this, Rubio had visited Israel and later arrived in Qatar, urging the nation to mediate between Israel and Hamas to maintain the ceasefire in Gaza.
Rubio highlighted that the US and Qatar are on the verge of finalizing a modern defense cooperation agreement. This statement is particularly noteworthy as Israel recently targeted Doha, aiming at Hamas leaders just last Tuesday.
In May, US President Donald Trump had assured Qatar that America would protect it against any attack. However, Trump later stated he was unaware of such assaults. Israeli officials, conversing with Axios, claimed Trump was informed prior to the attack.
Furthermore, Rubio mentioned, 'We have a deep partnership with Qatar. In fact, we are working on a modern defense cooperation agreement, which is nearing finalization.'
Majed Al Ansari, Qatar's foreign ministry spokesperson, reported that Rubio met Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani discussing defense cooperation.
Post Rubio's visit, in a briefing, Al Ansari remarked, 'The Israeli attack, undeniably, amplifies the necessity for a new strategic defense agreement between us and the US. This is not a new development, but it certainly requires expedited attention.'
Israel's strike on Qatar was extremely sensitive as Qatar is a near ally of America, hosting the largest US military base in the Middle East. For nearly two years, since the Gaza conflict commenced, Qatar alongside Egypt has been hosting and mediating ceasefire discussions.
