United States President Donald Trump has formally committed the United States to defending Qatar, a major Gulf ally outside NATO.
The move marks one of Washington’s strongest security pledges to Doha in recent history.
Trump signed an executive order on Monday declaring that any attack on Qatar’s territory, sovereignty, or key infrastructure will be treated as a direct threat to US peace and security.
The order further promises that America will take “all lawful and appropriate measures” to respond, including military action if necessary.
The announcement came during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the White House.
Netanyahu, who recently faced backlash for an Israeli strike in Doha last month, apologized to Qatar’s prime minister by phone during his US trip. At the same time, Trump unveiled his 20-point peace plan for Gaza.
Notably, the latest version no longer included a clear clause barring Israel from attacking Qatar.
Qatar quickly welcomed Trump’s order. Its foreign minister described it as proof of the “strong and longstanding ties” between Doha and Washington.
He added that Qatar remains committed to conflict resolution, diplomacy, and peace efforts in the region.
This pledge is a significant win for Qatar, which has long sought firmer US security guarantees.
In 2022, the Biden administration officially designated Qatar a “major non-NATO ally,” granting it enhanced military privileges.
The country also hosts Al Udeid Air Base, one of America’s largest military hubs in the Middle East
Trump’s new commitment follows his earlier pledge during a visit to the Gulf, when Doha and its neighbors announced close to $3 trillion in economic commitments.
Since then, Qatar has endured attacks from both Iran and Israel, heightening its push for stronger protection.
Other Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have also sought similar US guarantees.
Riyadh pursued talks with Washington under President Biden but failed to secure a binding agreement.
No deal was reached during Trump’s subsequent visit either, making Qatar’s new status a unique breakthrough.
By anchoring America’s defense commitment directly to Qatar, the order not only reshapes Gulf security but also signals Trump’s strategy of rewarding allies with economic and military alignment.