Why Britain is rolling out the red carpet for Qatar

This week’s state visit by the Emir of Qatar is the first of any Arab leader since King Charles ascended the throne. This is no coincidence: while its role is often misunderstood, Qatar has skilfully positioned itself as one of the West’s most important allies in the Middle East.

With the current conflict in the Levant showing no signs of slowing, the Russo-Ukrainian War entering a critical phase, and events in Syria and Yemen increasing the risk of a wider conflict, Doha’s role as the world’s mediator-in-chief is only going to become more important.

Yet the polarisation of political opinion in critical western partners such as America and Israel since the atrocities of October 7 have led many to misunderstand Qatar’s position. In particular, the presence of Hamas’ formal delegation (and much of its senior leadership) in Doha has drawn the ire of right-wing politicians in both countries.