The United States has stuck a new deal that extends its military base presence in Qatar for another ten years amidst the Gaza conflict.
US Extends Military Presence at Qatar Base Amid Gaza Conflict
Amid the Gaza conflict, a newly struck deal extending AI Udeid Air Base in Qatar for another ten years has been made as reported by Benzinga.
Qatar has been playing a crucial role in facilitating the talks between Hamas and Israeli officials – this first occurred around the release of hostages captured by the Palestinian Islamist group in the Gaza conflict.
This deal is such an important event as Qatar brokered a brief ceasefire in the Gaza conflict between Israel and Hamas, which saw the exchange of hostages and prisoners between the two sides.
READ ALSO: Red Sea Alert: USS Gravely Defends Against Houthi Missile Strikes
Leader, Head of US and Qatar in Frequent Discussions Since Gaza Conflict
According to Reuters, US President Joe Biden and Qatar’s Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani have been in discussions since October 7, the start of the Gaza conflict, primarily focusing on the release of hostages held by Hamas and the increased aid to Gaza conflict victims.
Despite the discussion, Qatar has attracted criticism from a few Congress members from the United States leading lawmakers to urge the US President to exert pressure on countries, especially Qatar.
READ ALSO: US Army Orders More AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma Worth Over $86 Million