Topic
Several Arab nations (including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Egypt and Yemen) abruptly cut diplomatic ties with Qatar on June 5, 2017.
- Kuwait is the only Gulf Arab state to have an elected government but political turmoil has stalled reforms in one of the world’s largest producers of crude oil
- ‘A decree from the Emir has been issued (to validate) the formation of the new government led by Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah,’ the government tweeted
Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the UAE began to boycott Qatar in 2017 over Qatar’s support of Islamists in power following the 2011 Arab spring.
The emirate may suddenly be in the news, but it has been eyeing a role as a global mediator for over 25 years.
Qatar has faced criticisms for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the 2022 World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation.
Saudi Arabia agreed to reopen its air, sea and land borders with Qatar on Tuesday – a breakthrough in the Gulf crisis.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman calls for unity in the region, singling out ‘threats’ posed by Iran’s nuclear programme.
The step is part of efforts to resolve a dispute that has split Qatar from its neighbours since 2017 and comes just before a summit of regional leaders.
Ali Issa Ahmad claims he was tortured, stabbed and racially abused by hosts in January tournament.
Qatar has faced an economic and diplomatic boycott since June 2017 by Gulf rivals who accused Doha of backing terrorism.
Residential prices are down about 10 per cent from June 2017, when a diplomatic, trade and transport boycott began
Considering the Saudi-led economic blockade and its own marginal position in Opec, Qatar has wisely opted to focus on natural gas production, where it has an economic advantage.
A senior adviser to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said he was ‘impatiently waiting’ for details about when work will start.
The UAE demanded Qataris leave the country last year, but the International Court of Justice has ruled that families with Qatari members must be reunited, and Qatari students be allowed to complete studies in the UAE.
Its Middle Eastern neighbours tried to choke the small Gulf state, but in effect forced Qatar to find creative solutions, new trade routes, and push reforms at a faster pace.
