Qatar has been a key mediator in the Gaza conflict, with Trump's visit there is also being viewed as a critical moment towards achieving another yet elusive ceasefire in Gaza.

The visit comes just days after a top United Nations (UN) humanitarian official urged the Security Council yesterday to take action to prevent a genocide in the enclave. The visit also comes amid additional controversy after Qatar's Royal family offered his administration a luxury $400 million Boeing super jet as a donation that would upgrade the current Presidential plane, Air Force One.

After receiving a lavish royal welcome by his hosts in Saudi Arabia, President Trump is now in the Qatari capital where he's met with Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, where hundreds of investments in the US are due to be announced.

Qatar is also currently hosting renewed ceasefire for hostage talks while Israel intensifies its military offensive in the decimated enclave of Gaza, with reports that more than 70 people had been killed in just the last 24 hours. Israel stands accused of imposing inhumane conditions on civilians amid a more than 70-day humanitarian blockade of the enclave. UN Humanitarian Chief, Tom Fletcher says the International Court of Justice is making confederations on the situation in Gaza.

“It will weigh the testimony we have shared. But it will be too late. Recognising the urgency, the International Court of Justice has indicated clear provisional measures that must be implemented now, yet they have not. So, for those killed and those whose voices are silenced: what more evidence do you need now? Will you act now, decisively, to prevent genocide and to ensure respect for international humanitarian law? Or will say instead, "we did all we could," Fletcher said.

Trump's visit is also stirring controversy at home over a proposed $400 million plane that the Qatari royal family wants to gift him as a replacement for his official jet, the Air Force One, amid national security concerns. Democratic Senate Minority Leader, Chuck Schumer argued says the relationship between the leader of the free world and Qatar is questionable.

“In light of the deeply troubling news of a possible Qatari-funded Air Force One, and the reports that the attorney general personally signed off on this clearly unethical deal, I am announcing a hold on all Department of Justice political nominees, until we get more answers,” Schumer said.

--SABC--