The multimillion-dollar agreement that the US sealed with Qatar at halftime of the key match with Iran

The President’s Government Joe Biden on Tuesday approved a $1 billion arms sale to Qatarin a transaction that was disclosed during halftime of the key World Cup match between Iran and USAat the Al Thumama stadium in Doha, which ended with a 1-0 victory for the North American team and their qualification to the round of 16 of the tournament.

The State Department announced that it had signed off on Qatar’s purchase of 10 defensive drone systems, 200 interceptors and related equipment just as the second half of the game between the United States and Iran began. Qatar, along with other Gulf Arab states, faces threats from Iranian-backed proxies in the region.

In a statement, the State Department said the sale would “support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to enhance the security of a friendly nation that continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress.” in the Middle East”.

The North American player Tim Ream consoles the Iranian Ramin Rezaeian after the victory this Tuesday of the United States over Iran, in the World Cup in Qatar Hassan Ammar – AP

“It will enhance Qatar’s ability to deal with current and future threats by providing electronic and kinetic defeat capabilities against unmanned aircraft systems. Qatar will have no difficulty absorbing these items and/or services into its Armed Forces,” the note said.

Last week, the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, traveled to Qatar to participate in a strategic dialogue forum, and watch the United States match against Wales for the World Cup, amid strong criticism of Qatar for rights violations humans.

Blinken’s visit to Doha offered another complex diplomatic balancing act for the Biden administration with a Middle Eastern ally. For many, the most valuable and trusted ally in the region: unlike Israel, Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates, Qatar sided with the United States in favor of Ukraine and against Russia and its president, Vladimir Putin.

PA Agency

Source: Elcomercio