The Turkish government will reportedly send an unlimited number of military troops to Qatar — who will serve alongside Pakistani army personnel — to protect the 2022 FIFA World Cup from threats.
The World Cup — which begins Nov. 20 and ends Dec. 18. — is expected to host roughly 1.2 million international visitors for the world’s largest single sporting tournament.
In September, the Qatari government announced that it is requiring “hundreds of civilians” to work checkpoints at stadiums to complement military security.
- A source told Reuters the Qatari government told civilians it is their “patriotic duty.”
- In August, Pakistan’s federal cabinet approved Qatar’s request to send their troops.
- On Oct. 5, the Turkish parliament approved a motion to send its military services.
Turkish and Pakistani troops won’t be the only foreign militaries working to secure the 2022 World Cup. France, the U.K., Italy, and the U.S. will also have a military presence in Qatar.
The French Air and Space Force will send an E-3 Sentry aircraft capable of tracking hundreds of targets.
Race to the Finish
The 2022 World Cup is less than two months away, but Qatar is racing to accommodate its anticipated influx of international soccer fans.
MSC Cruises plans to provide a third ship between Nov. 19 and Dec. 19. to operate as a hotel for the tournament. In June, only 90,000 hotel rooms were available throughout host city Doha.
