U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order committing to defend Qatar against external aggression, marking a significant shift in Washington's security posture in the Gulf. The order, published on the White House website, states that any attack on Qatar would be treated as a threat to U.S. peace and security, with potential diplomatic, economic, or military responses.
Qatar's foreign ministry hailed the move as a "milestone" in bilateral relations, emphasizing its role in hosting U.S. forces and mediating regional conflicts. The announcement follows Israel's September 9 airstrikes on Doha, which killed six people during Hamas-led ceasefire talks. Qatar has served as a key intermediary between the U.S., Israel, and Hamas throughout the Gaza conflict.
The order underscores Qatar's strategic importance, citing its support for U.S. security operations and peace initiatives. Trump affirmed Washington's commitment to Qatar's territorial integrity, stating: "We will take all lawful measures to defend our shared interests and restore stability." Analysts suggest the pledge could reshape Gulf geopolitics amid ongoing mediation efforts.
