The Gulf Arab state has used a complex web of friendships nurtured by its gas riches to become a go-to mediator in global diplomacy, hosting both the Middle East's biggest U.S. airbase while opening its doors to Islamists and forging ties with Iran.
As temporary home to the evacuated Afghanistan embassies of the United States and several European allies, it has served as a central mediator for Western efforts to engage the Taliban. Between 10,000 and 20,000 Israelis are expected at the month-long matches in the Gulf emirate, an unprecedented influx after years in which it admitted only low-key delegates.Hamas is one of several anti-Western groups such as the Taliban and Algeria's Islamic Salvation Front hosted by Qatar. Doha also provides a haven for Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood, which opposes the absolute rule of the Gulf's hereditary rulers.
Qatar became a major backer of rebels fighting President Bashar al-Assad after war erupted in Syria in 2011, providing weapons and other support.