- This historic decree reflects a deepening of US-Qatar security ties and signals Washington’s readiness to protect the Gulf nation against external threats, further reinforcing Qatar’s role as a regional mediator and strategic partner in maintaining stability across the Middle East.
The United States has formally pledged to guarantee Qatar’s security in the aftermath of an Israeli strike targeting Hamas leaders last month, according to a presidential decree published by the White House.
Qatar becomes the first country to receive such protection under a US presidential directive, underscoring Washington’s commitment to safeguarding its Gulf ally.
The decree, signed by President Donald Trump the day before yesterday, is organized into four sections: political, compliance, implementation, and general provisions.
The political section highlighted the longstanding cooperation between the US and Qatar, noting Qatar’s role as host to American forces, its contribution to vital security operations, and its role as a mediator in regional and international conflicts. The decree stated that “it is the policy of the United States to ensure Qatar’s security and territorial integrity against any external aggression.”
The commitment section outlined five clauses.
The first declares that any armed attack on Qatar’s territory, sovereignty, or critical infrastructure constitutes a threat to US peace and security.
The second authorizes the US to respond with diplomatic, economic, or, if necessary, military measures to defend both Washington’s and Doha’s interests.
The third mandates joint contingency planning between the US Secretary of Defense, Secretary of State, and Director of National Intelligence to ensure a rapid, coordinated response to foreign aggression.
The fourth requires the Secretary of State to reaffirm the guarantee and coordinate with allies for complementary support.
The fifth emphasizes ongoing collaboration with Qatar in conflict resolution and mediation, recognizing the country’s extensive diplomatic experience.
Implementation directives call on all executive departments and agencies to act in accordance with the law to carry out the decree. The general provisions clarify that the order does not impair legal powers of any department or agency, must respect financial appropriations, and does not create enforceable rights against the US. Costs for publishing the decree will be borne by the Department of State.
Commenting on the announcement, Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari said at a press conference in Doha that the security guarantees provided during a phone call between President Trump and the Israeli Prime Minister were “very clear” and included a commitment that Qatar would not face further attacks.
He added, “We are satisfied with the security guarantees we received,” reaffirming that Israel had pledged not to attack Qatar again.
This historic decree reflects a deepening of US-Qatar security ties and signals Washington’s readiness to protect the Gulf nation against external threats, further reinforcing Qatar’s role as a regional mediator and strategic partner in maintaining stability across the Middle East.
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