U.S. Strikes Deal for Qatari Air Force Facility in Idaho

Washington, DC — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Friday that the U.S. has finalized an agreement allowing the Qatari Emiri Air Force to establish a facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. This facility will be used to train Qatari pilots alongside U.S. military personnel.

During a meeting with Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, Qatar‘s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Hegseth stated, “The location will host a contingent of Qatari F-15s and pilots to enhance our combined training, increase lethality, interoperability. It’s just another example of our partnership.” Hegseth emphasized the importance of this relationship, assuring al-Thani, “You can count on us.”

The announcement follows a recent executive order signed by Donald Trump, which guarantees U.S. security for Qatar, highlighting the U.S.’s commitment to this non-NATO ally. This commitment came after Israeli air strikes targeting Hamas leaders in Doha provoked international concern.

A U.S. official clarified that the agreement is routine and similar to longstanding arrangements with other countries like Germany and Singapore. Hegseth later confirmed on social media, stating that while Qatar would not have an independent base in the U.S., their military cooperation is essential for mutual defense capabilities.

However, the decision has sparked criticism from some corners, including far-right activists and MAGA supporters. Laura Loomer, a close ally of Trump, voiced her discontent, calling the deal a “betrayal”. She criticized the presence of a foreign military facility on U.S. soil, questioning the implications of such a partnership with a nation that has ties to terrorism.

In response to the backlash, Hegseth reiterated the U.S.’s historical partnership with Qatar, reflecting on its role in peace negotiations in the region. He noted Qatar’s significant involvement in efforts that led to recent ceasefires in the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The environmental impact assessment for the facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base was published during the Biden administration, indicating preparations for such a project had been underway for several years. Construction plans include spaces for pilot training, scheduling, and operations.

Al-Thani welcomed the agreement, stating, “This step strengthens interoperabilities, enhances joint readiness, and advances our shared defense goals.” The partnership is expected to enhance military cooperation and operational readiness between the U.S. and Qatar.