President Donald Trump signed an executive order guaranteeing the United States would defend Qatar, including through military action, if necessary. The document stated, “In the event of such an attack, the United States shall take all lawful and appropriate measures—including diplomatic, economic, and, if necessary, military—to defend the interests of the United States and of the State of Qatar and to restore peace and stability.” It also mandated joint contingency planning between U.S. defense officials and Qatari authorities to address potential foreign aggression against Qatar.

A Qatari official confirmed to CBS News that the Trump administration’s decision followed Israel’s September 9 attack on Doha, which targeted Hamas leaders allegedly present in the capital. Israel claimed the strike aimed to neutralize Hamas figures, a group designated as a terrorist organization by both the U.S. and Israel. Qatar hosts the Al-Udeid Air Base, a key U.S. military installation in the Middle East, and is classified as a Major Non-NATO Ally under President Joe Biden’s administration.

The executive order emphasized Qatar’s role as a “steadfast ally” in regional stability, citing its efforts as a mediator in global conflicts. It acknowledged ongoing threats to Qatar from foreign aggression and declared U.S. policy to safeguard the nation’s security. The move highlighted Qatar’s ability to secure strategic advantages amid regional tensions, isolating Israel and securing a defense agreement that other Arab states have long sought without success.

Under pressure from Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued public and private apologies for the Doha strike, marking a significant diplomatic setback. The crisis also pushed Netanyahu toward accepting a Gaza war-end plan, a first since Hamas’s October 7 attacks. Meanwhile, Qatar’s defense pact with the U.S. contrasts with its strained relations with Israel, as Israeli officials have sought similar agreements without success.