Trump Reportedly Begins White House Meeting With Qatar’s Prime Minister

U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly began meeting Qatar’s prime minister and foreign minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, at the White House on November 9. An unnamed U.S. official was cited as saying the meeting had started. The White House’s published schedule had placed the meeting in the Oval Office at noon Eastern Standard Time, equivalent to 7 p.m. in Israel. It listed the meeting as closed to the press. The schedule identified Mohammed in his capacity as Qatar’s prime minister. On November 5, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said Mohammed spoke by telephone with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi about bilateral relations, regional developments and cooperation between their countries. The ministry said their discussion also covered diplomatic efforts and coordination to reduce tensions and restore regional security and stability. Mohammed expressed support for initiatives to protect freedom of maritime navigation and pursue a comprehensive agreement for lasting regional peace. On November 7, Mohammed held a separate telephone conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah Al Saud. Qatar’s account said they discussed bilateral cooperation, regional developments and diplomatic coordination toward de-escalation. Mohammed again backed diplomacy intended to safeguard navigation and achieve a comprehensive regional accord.