Qatar Is Rising!

While I was in the Obama White House with faith leaders, Qatar was held in high esteem because of their strategic partnerships, their tolerance to faith community and their desire to be a solid global citizen. For 50 years, the US and Qatar have enjoyed a close partnership. That partnership was only deepened with the state visit of HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Based on statements of President Biden and subsequent actions of the Administration, these sentiments remain.

Some recent examples of the importance of US-Qatar relations both here and abroad include:

• Support to the City of Los Angeles and other areas of the nation in times of disaster to help people, regardless of their country of origin. $5 million in COVID relief in LA

• Qatar is home to the largest US military base on the planet. The nation has helped military personnel who serve in Qatar. Service members and their families have great administration for the people of Qatar

• They have become a key Strategic Arms partner

• Qatar and the US are discussing opportunities for educational, arts, culture and sports diplomacy.

While at the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, I researched the history of the flag of Qatar color.

Historians state that the Qatari flag is unique for the maroon hue which mesmerized ancient nations, and its cultural heritage still serves as a symbol of prestige, veneration and high social standing. It is one of the noblest of colors.

But history is not the only source of information about this period. Islamic traditions regarding the life and deeds of Prophet Mohammed, may peace be upon him, tell us that the Prophet had worn Qatari robes throughout his life, on festivals and on Fridays, and that the maroon Qatari robe was the last garment the Prophet wore. According to a Hadith on the last day of Mohammed’s life, as related by Anas Bin Malek, Mohammed, Peace Be Upon Him, went out to the mosque, and was leaning on Usama Bin Zayd. He was wearing Qatari clothes, which had prayed in, and this was the last thing the Prophet wore.

As a gesture of our appreciation to the nation, our relationship with the Consul General and our admiration of the people, history, culture and future of Qatar, I would like to offer this letter of support from the American Center for Religious Freedom.