Qatar’s state security agency chief, Abdullah bin Mohammed Al-Khulaifi, has been awarded the “George Tenet” medal by CIA Director Bill Burns earlier this week, a report by Axios said on Friday.

The spy chief was recognised for his work towards strengthening US-Qatari intelligence cooperation, the report said, citing two sources privy to the matter.

The Qatari official was awarded in a ceremony that took place at the CIA headquarters earlier this week, as the two countries play key mediating roles in Gaza ceasefire talks, which are currently being held in Doha

“One of the main reasons for the award is Qatar’s efforts to release the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza,” Axios reported, citing one of the sources.

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 US and Qatar”.

Another key reason for the award was the cooperation between the CIA and Qatari intelligence on counterterrorism, the report added.

Washington and Doha have enjoyed increasingly close relations in recent years.

In 2022, US President Joe Biden designated Qatar as a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA), solidifying the countries’ bilateral military and economic ties and reflecting Doha’s growing role as a key regional ally for Washington. 

Qatar also hosts the largest US military base in the region – the Al-Udied airbase, which serves as the forward headquarters of US Central Command (CENTCOM) and plays a pivotal role in US military operations in the region, including counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, and logistical support.

Qatar’s diplomatic efforts have also contributed to its enhanced standing with the US. The Gulf nation has positioned itself as a mediator in various regional conflicts, from facilitating negotiations between the US and the Taliban to its current role in Gaza ceasefire talks.