US President Donald Trump praised Qatar as a “great ally” during a brief stop in Doha while traveling to Malaysia for the 47th ASEAN summit. Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman welcomed him.
Trump described Qatar as a key player for regional security, saying, “You have a safe Middle East right there, and you’re gonna keep it that way for a long time.” He highlighted the strong partnership between Washington and Doha.
During his remarks, Trump recalled the achievements of the past year, stating, “What we’ve done is incredible. Peace to the Middle East, and they were a very big factor in this. I just want to thank them.” He emphasized the bilateral cooperation in promoting stability.
The US President also praised the Qatari leadership personally, adding, “It is an honor. We have a great ally. These are two great men. I want to just say we express our thanks.” His words reinforced Doha’s role as a trusted partner in the Gulf region.
Trump commented on the ongoing Gaza ceasefire, expressing cautious optimism. “I think it will hold. If it doesn’t hold, that would be Hamas. Hamas will not be hard to take care of very quickly. I hope it holds for Hamas too.”
He further discussed the formation of a stabilization force for Gaza, explaining that leaders are being selected. “You’re going to have peace in the Middle East. This is real peace. This has never happened before. Hopefully, everlasting peace,” he added.
The first phase of Trump’s 20-point Gaza plan started on October 10, including the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. It also outlines Gaza’s rebuilding and the establishment of a new governing mechanism without Hamas.
Since October 2023, the Israeli conflict in Gaza has caused heavy casualties. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, over 68,500 people have died and more than 170,300 have been injured, reflecting the humanitarian urgency behind Trump’s peace efforts.
Trump’s visit to Doha underscores the strategic US-Qatar partnership, emphasizing peace initiatives, regional security, and collaboration in crisis management. Observers noted that Qatar continues to serve as a key mediator in the Gulf and broader Middle East.
