Qatar has executed a sophisticated and successful campaign to influence Western policymaking, particularly in the U.S., through significant financial investments in institutions, media, and lobbying efforts.

The article discusses the historical evolution of think tanks from their origins in Europe in the 800s to the formation of independent research groups in the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly focusing on the Dupuy Academy in France.

Martin Indyk, a peace negotiator involved in Israeli-Palestinian relations, received a substantial $14.8 million from Qatar while working at the Brookings Institution, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest as Qatar supports Hamas, a group hostile to Israel and Mahmoud Abbas.