Qatar declared it will not allow any attacks to be launched from the Al-Udeid Air Base against any other country. Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman emphasized the strategic partnership with the US and highlighted the importance of sovereignty. He addressed the region’s complex conflicts, notably in Gaza and Lebanon, while advocating for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance.
On Wednesday, Qatar firmly stated that it will not permit any military operations to be launched from the Al-Udeid Air Base, which is home to the largest United States military facility in the Middle East. Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman expressed in an interview with Qatar TV that the State of Qatar does not condone attacks or warfare being initiated from its territory against any nation in the region or beyond. Al-Udeid Air Base currently hosts approximately 13,000 US troops, as reported by Al Jazeera. The Prime Minister underscored that the relationship with the United States constitutes a strategic partnership marked by multifaceted cooperation, while both parties maintain full sovereignty, refraining from interfering in each other’s internal affairs. The regional climate remains tense, particularly with Iran heightening its alertness following an Israeli military response to a missile attack executed on October 1, which Iran claims was retaliation for the assassination of key Hezbollah, Hamas leaders, and an Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander. In addressing ongoing mediation efforts for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, Bin Abdulrahman remarked, “For more than a year, we have been mediating in the Gaza file but, unfortunately, the agreement requires two parties.” He also discussed efforts to resolve the war in Lebanon, noting the significant humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict, which has displaced 1.2 million Lebanese citizens. The Prime Minister pointed out, “Lebanon’s major crisis is the war that resulted in the displacement of 1.2 million Lebanese, not the presidency.” This ongoing crisis follows an extensive air campaign launched by Israel against Hezbollah targets since September 23, resulting in over 1,500 casualties and the displacement of more than 1.34 million individuals. The aerial offensive marks an escalation in the persistent conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, particularly after Israel’s military actions in Gaza that have reportedly caused over 42,400 deaths, predominantly among women and children, since the onset of Hamas’ aggression last year. The situation further escalated on October 1 when Israel initiated an incursion into southern Lebanon.
The Al-Udeid Air Base serves as a critical hub for US military operations in the Middle East, with a substantial presence of approximately 13,000 troops. Qatar’s announcement comes during a period of heightened regional tensions, particularly between Israel and various militant groups, including Hezbollah and Hamas. The Prime Minister’s statements reflect Qatar’s position on maintaining domestic sovereignty and its commitment to mediating conflicts in the region, particularly concerning the ongoing crises in Gaza and Lebanon. The humanitarian impact of these conflicts, including considerable displacement and loss of life, underscores the urgent need for diplomatic resolutions.
In conclusion, Qatar has asserted its stance against permitting military operations from Al-Udeid Air Base towards any nations, emphasizing its commitment to sovereignty and partnership with the United States. The regional instability characterized by conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon continues to pose significant humanitarian challenges, highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts for seeking peace and resolving disputes.
Original Source: www.middleeastmonitor.com
