Aug 15, 2024 - World

CIA gives head of Qatari intelligence top award

Barak Ravid

Head of Qatar State Security, Abdullah bin Mohammed Al-Khulaifi, — Head of Qatar State Security, Abdullah bin Mohammed Al-Khulaifi. Credit: Government of Qatar

CIA director Bill Burns earlier this week awarded the head of the Qatari State Security Agency, Abdullah bin Mohammed Al-Khulaifi, the "George Tenet" medal for his work on strengthening intelligence cooperation between the U.S. and Qatar, according to two sources with knowledge of the issue.

Why it matters: The ceremony at CIA headquarters earlier this week took place amid intense diplomatic efforts by the U.S. and Qatar to reach a Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal.

Burns and Al-Khulaifi are playing key roles in these efforts.
One of the main reasons for the award is Qatar's efforts to release the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, one of the sources said.

Behind the scenes: The source said Burns gave the award to his Qatari counterpart in "appreciation of his role in maintaining national and regional security, and the exceptional support he provided to the CIA in preserving the interests and security of the U.S. and Qatar."

Another main reason for the award was the cooperation between the CIA and Qatari intelligence in counterterrorism and the ability of the Qatari State Security Agency to prevent and foil threats and attacks in the Middle East, the source said.
The CIA declined to comment.

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CIA gives head of Qatari intelligence top award

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