Trump Grants Military Base to Qatar in Idaho-  Encouraging a new Arab ally or a funder of terrorism?

October 13, 2025- The Trump  Administration signed an agreement with Qatar to establish a Qatari air force facility in Idaho- actually a group of buildings and some that Qatar will fund construction.  This new Qatari training facility will allow Qatari pilots to host Qatarai F-15’s which they will buy from the USA and to train them alongside American military personnel at the US Mountain Home Airbase.

Qatar hosts Al Udeid Air Base- a key US military installation in the Middle East.  And, Qatar played a critical role in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in October, 2025.

Additionally, Trump signed an executive order to have the US guarantee the security of Qatar- a significant commitment to a non- NATO, Arab ally- days after Israel bombed Qatar as part of an operation against Hamas.

So, the question remains- is this a business deal- buy US jets for training on them and a presence in the USA soil (which may or may not be good for the USA) or a longer term alliance with a potential ally in the Arab world. And, did the “free” $400 million luxury jet have any part in the decision. Unlikely.

In May 2025, Qatar pledged an “economic exchange” of at least $1.2 trillion, which included substantial investments in the U.S. and significant purchases of American goods and invest $500 billion in American infrastructure over the next decade. So, did Trump sell American security for a business deal and stroking his ego as well Trump deals for new personal projects in Quatar including a Trump golf resort and luxury villas. Or, was this a great deal for the US between two economic oriented countries and a long term potential US ally? Time will tell.

While Trump has historically praised Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates (UAB), he has said that Qatar has historically been a funder of terrorism at a “very high level” and supported a blockade against the country. Qatar has financed Hamas and Muslim Brotherhood in the past. Hopefully, peace will reign.