Why Qatar Needs to Be Controlled
Qatar is a small country barely visible on a global map, located along the Arabian Gulf. With a population of just over 300,000 citizens and over two million resident aliens, it is about the size of Connecticut but punches above its weight in terms of influence.
Despite its small size, Qatar is home to more than ten percent of the world’s proved natural gas reserves, making it one of the top five wealthiest countries per capita. With assets estimated at a trillion dollars, Qatar plays a significant role on the global stage.
Qatar has a twofold agenda – positioning itself as a key player in the region with ties to all nations while promoting the ideology of the Muslim Brotherhood. Despite its wealth and influence, Qatar uses its resources to advance its own interests rather than just acting as a mediator between nations.
Through various means such as hosting the 2022 soccer World Cup, acquiring iconic sports teams, building a global airline, and investing in education, Qatar tries to bolster its image. It also employs lobbyists, lawyers, and PR experts to promote its brand and silence any opposition.
Recent incidents, such as attempts to bribe European Parliament members and allegations of bribery against Senator Bob Menendez, shed light on Qatar’s tactics. The closure of the Texas A&M campus in Qatar due to a secret contract also raises concerns about Qatar’s influence abroad.
American universities operating in Qatar, along with Qatar’s funding of other American universities, pose questions about Qatar’s motives. There is a need for greater scrutiny and transparency in Qatar’s dealings with educational institutions.
The Biden administration’s leniency towards Qatar’s actions, including granting it the status of a “major non-NATO ally,” is concerning. It is time for the US to reassess its approach to Qatar and take a stronger stance against Qatar’s questionable practices.
Measures such as restricting Qatar’s support for Hamas leaders, enforcing laws on foreign donations to US universities, reconsidering the presence of American troops in Qatar, and demanding transparency from Al Jazeera as a foreign agent of the Qatari government are necessary steps to protect American interests.
Qatar’s actions pose a threat to US national security, and a firm response is required to address this issue. A clear message to Qatar, backed by decisive action, is essential to safeguard American interests.
David Harris is vice chair of the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy (ISGAP).
Charles Asher Small is the founder of ISGAP and its executive director.
