US presence in Gulf 'not enough' for security, Qatari official says

Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari stated on Monday that the US presence in the Gulf is no longer sufficient for regional security. He emphasized during the Hili Forum in Abu Dhabi that self-sufficiency in security is the only way forward, as relying solely on international forces and strategic alliances is insufficient.

Al-Ansari acknowledged the importance of partners and allies but stressed that dependence on them alone is not enough. Former US Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines echoed similar sentiments, warning that a reduction of the US footprint in the region would have negative consequences. Qatar hosts the largest US military base in the Arab world, which serves as the regional headquarters for US Central Command.

Despite reassurances from US President Donald Trump that the conflict with Iran would soon be over, al-Ansari warned that its days must be numbered, as the world cannot afford for the Strait of Hormuz to remain closed or for there to be continuous military pressure.