Washington: Speaking while departing Tel Aviv for Doha, Rubio said the new pact would reinforce Washington’s security partnership with Qatar at a critical moment. “We have a close partnership with the Qataris. In fact, we have an enhanced defence cooperation agreement, which we’ve been working on, and we’re on the verge of finalising,” he said.
The announcement comes as the Gulf state reels from last week’s Israeli attack in its capital, which Qatar denounced as “cowardly and treacherous.” The assault prompted widespread criticism across the Arab world and a show of support for Doha at a summit of Arab and Islamic states.
According to the Amiri Diwan, the Emir of Qatar met with Rubio to discuss joint diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, ensure the release of Israeli hostages, and address the plight of Palestinian prisoners. The talks also touched on the broader repercussions of the Israeli strike in Doha.
Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari stressed that Doha’s priority was defending its sovereignty.
U.S. President Donald Trump also weighed in, expressing dissatisfaction with Israel’s unilateral action. Visiting Doha earlier this year, Trump had pledged U.S. protection for Qatar if attacked. He reiterated this stance after the strike, assuring Qatari leaders that such incidents would not be repeated.
Despite the tensions, Rubio urged Qatar to continue mediating between Israel and Hamas, describing the Gulf nation as uniquely placed to broker progress. He emphasized that if any country in the world can help mediate it, Qatar is the one.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, signaled defiance, warning he would target Hamas leaders “wherever they are.” His comments underscored the fragility of ongoing diplomacy as Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. push for a ceasefire in Gaza.