Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates broke off their diplomatic relations with Qatar
Words: Vandana Devi Images: Various Sources
In one of the worst diplomatic crisis to hit Gulf Arab states in decades, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates broke off their diplomatic relations with Qatar. This comes with the accusation of Qatar supporting terrorism and destabilising the region. Yemen and Maldives also cut ties with Qatar.
The 4 nations announced that they would withdraw their diplomatic staff from Qatar. Qatari citizens have also been told that they would have 14 days to leave the 4 nations and they also banned their own citizens from entering Qatar.
Emirates airlines suspended all its flights to and from Doha starting 6 June. All ports of entry between Saudi Arabia and Qatar will be closed. Etihad airways will also suspend its Doha flights on 7 June. Other airlines in the countries are also expected to follow suit. Qatar Airways has also suspended all its flights to the 4 nations.
Qatar has allegedly shown support for ISIS and al-Qaeda. It has been accused of “funding and hosting” terrorist groups in the state. Qatar has, however denied that it funds or supports extremist groups. Kuwait and Oman are the only Gulf Cooperation Council members remaining who have not broken ties with Qatar yet. Kuwait is trying to mediate the diplomatic crisis.