The Pentagon has approved the establishment of a Qatari Emiri Air Force facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho, focusing on training Qatari pilots to operate F-15 fighter jets. The announcement, made October 10, 2025, was led by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who emphasized the facility’s role in strengthening U.S.-Qatar military cooperation.
Hegseth stated, “Today, we’re announcing a letter of acceptance in building a Qatari Emiri Air Force facility at the Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho.” The move aligns with broader efforts to stabilize regional security in the Middle East.
The decision follows President Donald J. Trump’s 2025 Executive Order, which pledged U.S. support for Qatar’s defense, declaring any armed attack on the nation as a threat to American interests. The order outlined measures, including military action, to safeguard Qatar’s territory and infrastructure.
Additionally, the Trump administration signaled plans to expand the Abraham Accords, aiming to enhance regional diplomatic ties after the Israeli-Hamas ceasefire. A senior official noted the initiative could foster “better sentiment and opportunity to change the tone in the region.”
