Doha - The United States has successfully negotiated a 10-year extension of its military presence at Qatar's Al Udeid Air Base, situated in the desert southwest of Doha. This base, acknowledged as the largest U.S. military facility in the Middle East, has been pivotal in the region's geopolitical landscape. The agreement, first reported by CNN, awaits a response from the U.S. Department of Defense.

Qatar, a key player in mediating talks between Hamas and Israeli officials, has been actively involved in addressing the conflict in Gaza and securing the release of hostages captured by Hamas during its cross-border attack on Israel on Oct. 7, resulting in significant casualties. U.S. President Joe Biden has maintained regular communication with the Emir of Qatar since the October incident, focusing on hostage release efforts and increasing aid to Gaza.

Despite its mediation efforts, Qatar has faced criticism in the U.S. Congress due to the presence of Hamas in the country. On Oct. 16, a bipartisan group of 113 U.S. lawmakers urged President Biden to exert pressure on nations supporting Hamas, including Qatar.

Qatar holds the status of a major non-NATO U.S. ally, a designation granted to close, non-NATO allies with strategic relationships with the U.S. military. Beyond its regional mediation role, Qatar has served as a crucial channel for U.S. dialogue with the Taliban post the American withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. The Gulf state played a notable role in brokering deals in late 2023 that led to the release of some Americans through prisoner swaps involving Venezuela and Iran.