The US has continued to extend its presence in the Qatar nation for another decade by signing the deal. The contract was signed very quietly without making it public, suggesting that the US heavily depends on the military base.
The information regarding the contract signing was released by three US defense officials. Its negotiations took place under wraps to extend its presence at Al Udeid Military Base, which is the largest US military base in the Middle East. The base accommodates around 10,000 US soldiers.
Expanding U.S. Presence at Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar
In 2022, the US bolstered its presence at the Al Udeid Base in the middle east nation by deploying F-22s and a squadron of “core space operators” from the US Space Force. This move followed Qatar’s earlier investment of $1.8 billion to upgrade the airbase, which also included adding housing units for deployed US troops during the World Cup.
Despite no formal call for a permanent presence, sporadic reports suggest long-term plans. Qatar’s significance extends beyond providing just a base. It also involves substantial purchases of American military hardware, such as F-15 fighter jets and over $900 million in missiles and weaponry. In late 2022, the Associated Press journalists witnessed new facilities at Al-Udeid and learned about future upgrades. Airmen emphasized the establishment of a task force focused on drones and other military technologies, signaling a lasting commitment from the US. According to Air Force Lt. Col. Erin Brilla, the US presence is considered an enduring capability in the region.
U.S. Boosts Qatar as Major Non-NATO Ally
Qatar, has maintained a significant position as a negotiator in the conflicts in the Middle East and well as with Venezuela recently.
In the context of the great power rivalry, the United States designated Qatar as a major non-NATO Ally a year ago, seen as part of U.S. efforts to counterbalance China and Russia. Notably, it also stands out for its serious stance on the liberation of Palestinian territories, differing from some U.S. allies. This move coincided with U.S. Secretary of State Blinken’s visit to Qatar, where the Qatari position did not align with the staunch U.S. ally, Israel. The geopolitical dynamics surrounding this development are intriguing and underscore Qatar’s strategic significance in the region.
In addition to its strategic role in the region, the nation serves as a crucial party for U.S. engagement with the Taliban after the 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal. Notably, it played a pivotal mediating role, facilitating deals in late 2023 that resulted in the release of some Americans through prisoner swaps involving Venezuela and Iran
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