Qatar, which is locked into a messy political squabble with its Persian Gulf State neighbors including Saudi Arabia, tapped former Attorney General John Ashcroft's firm for compliance and US government/media work.

A $2.5M retainer covers that effort.

Qatar skyline

That hefty flat fee highlights the "urgent need to commence work immediately and the firm's intention to make this matter a top priority."

The Ashcroft Law Firm will provide the Qataris with strategic advice, legal counsel, crisis response and management, media outreach and advocacy regarding Qatar's current and future efforts to combat terror.

John Ashcroft, who leads the effort, plans to enlist the support of former members of the US intelligence community and Treasury/Homeland Security departments to complete the engagement.

He was George W. Bush's AG and former Senator from Missouri.