October 10, 2025
The United States continues to solidify its alliances with nations dedicated to peace and stability, this week announcing a new partnership with Qatar. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed that the Pentagon has agreed to host a new Qatari Emiri Air Force (QEAF) facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base (MHAFB) in Idaho.
Secretary Hegseth made the announcement at a ceremony welcoming Qatari Defense Minister Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. This agreement marks a significant step in strengthening the relationship between the United States and Qatar.
“Today, we are pleased to announce the establishment of a Qatari Emiri Air Force facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho,” Secretary Hegseth stated.
The facility will house Qatari F-15 fighter jets and pilots, enabling joint training operations with U.S. forces. This collaborative effort is designed to enhance interoperability and combat readiness, ensuring that both nations are prepared to face any threats to their security. Mountain Home Air Force Base has a history of hosting foreign military training units, including the Republic of Singapore Air Force, which has trained there since 1998.
“The base will accommodate a contingent of Qatari F-15s and pilots, facilitating enhanced joint training to improve both lethality and interoperability,” Secretary Hegseth explained. “This is yet another example of our strong partnership.”
Secretary Hegseth also recognized Qatar’s crucial role in brokering the recent Gaza peace agreement, underscoring the strong partnership between the two countries.
“You have been instrumental in what has transpired in Gaza, a truly historic moment. We appreciate the robust collaboration, the support you provide to our troops at Al Udeid, and the open communication we have maintained,” he said, referencing the U.S. military base in Qatar.
Minister Al Thani expressed his gratitude for the close cooperation, noting that the joint effort between the United States and Qatar ultimately led to the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
“We also value the close cooperation between Doha and Washington, which resulted in the signing of the Gaza peace plan on October 8th. This landmark achievement highlights what can be accomplished when our nations work together with courage and trust, alongside partners like Egypt and Turkey,” Minister Al Thani stated.
“We welcome the signing of the Letter of Acceptance for the establishment of a Qatari Emiri Air Force facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. These actions strengthen interoperability, enhance joint readiness, and advance our shared defense objectives. Together, we will continue to deepen this strategic alliance in pursuit of lasting peace and stability,” Minister Al Thani added.
The announcement follows President Donald Trump’s executive order committing to protect Qatar after an Israeli airstrike in Doha targeted Hamas leaders involved in peace negotiations, resulting in multiple casualties, including a Qatari security official.
“In the event of such an attack, the United States will take all lawful and appropriate measures, including diplomatic, economic, and, if necessary, military actions, to defend the interests of the United States and the State of Qatar and to restore peace and stability,” President Trump’s executive order stated.
This new partnership reflects a commitment to a strong national defense through collaboration with allies who share a vision of global stability.
