Idaho’s Military Training Deal With Qatar Stirs National Controversy

For most folks around the world, the state of Idaho is known for its potatoes, blue football field, world-class skiing, Hollywood stars, Allen & Company, and other attractions. However, to the military world, the Gem State is home to one of the most intense and strategically necessary training facilities at both Gowen Field and Mountain Home Air Force Base.

It is not unusual for air forces from our allies to spend several months training around Mountain Home Air Force Base. Today, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced a historic partnership between the United States of America and Qatar.

The Qatari Air Force will train its F-15 pilots at a facility on the base in Mountain Home. The announcement has triggered an unexpected backlash worldwide and in the Gem State.

Idaho State Senator Brian Lenny shared his concerns.