Kristi Noem, Senior Advisor to the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, announced at the Global Security Forum in Doha that the Gulf Cooperation Council countries have been severely affected by the war with the Islamic Republic, and the U.S. intends to cooperate in protecting refineries, critical infrastructure, and airports.
The Necessity of U.S. Cooperation in Gulf Security
Noem stated in this discussion that the real security and protection of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries is not possible without the presence of the U.S. She pointed to the negative impacts of war and insecurity in the region and added that the United States, as a strategic partner, is working to protect the infrastructure and people of these countries.
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She referred to the Mecca Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, stating that this agreement is alongside U.S. participation and not as a replacement. Noem remarked, "We welcome peace and partnership, but we know that America also needs partners it can rely on."
Security Challenges in the Region
Noem further pointed to the military capabilities of the Houthis, describing them as "very adaptable" and "agile" in employing modern tools and weapons. She also called the ground infrastructure of this group "very fortified" and emphasized that this situation harms the United States, with consequences affecting all regional actors.
The former U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security referenced the daily challenges that former President Donald Trump faced in dealing with the Houthis and reopening waterways, stating that these actions are aimed at restoring the energy flow to its previous state.
Noem concluded by appreciating Qatar's role in negotiations and emphasized the importance of diplomacy, saying, "Diplomacy is always on the table, but everyone at the table must also accept diplomacy." She also referred to the actions the U.S. President is taking to address challenges, stating, "We have seen it time and again. When necessary, he brings consequences and does what it takes to cripple our enemy country."
Kristi Noem was the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security until March of this year and is now a Senior Advisor to Christopher Landau, the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State. She concluded her role as the Special Envoy for the "Continental Shield of America" in September 2023.
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