WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES: In a move signaling deeper military cooperation, the United States has announced the establishment of a Qatar Emiri Air Force facility at the Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho, a development aimed at strengthening bilateral defense collaboration and joint air operations.
The announcement came during a press briefing where U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that both nations had signed a Letter of Acceptance for the project. The new facility will house Qatari F-15 fighter jets and pilots, allowing both countries to enhance training, combat readiness, and interoperability.
“This partnership is a testament to the shared goals of stability, strength, and security between our nations,” Hegseth stated, emphasizing the growing trust between Washington and Doha. He further highlighted that the initiative reflects a broader U.S. strategy to reinforce alliances in the Middle East, particularly as Qatar continues to play a diplomatic role in regional conflicts and ceasefire efforts.
Qatar’s Defence Minister Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani hailed the agreement as a “symbol of enduring friendship and mutual commitment,” adding that it would create new opportunities for defence innovation and joint operations.
However, the decision has sparked debate within the U.S., with some critics expressing concern about hosting foreign military personnel on American soil. Social media commentators, including far-right activist Laura Loomer, questioned the implications of such a move. In response, Hegseth clarified that the facility will remain under U.S. military control, serving as a joint training hub rather than an independent foreign base.
The facility is expected to undergo design and construction phases in the coming months, marking another milestone in the long-standing U.S.–Qatar defence relationship — one that continues to evolve amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.