U.S. concerned about Qatari crisis
By Kamila Aliyeva
The Gulf dispute between Qatar and other Arab states has reached a deadlock as Doha refused to fulfill demands sent by its Arab neighbors.
The United States voiced concern about ongoing situation between Qatar and GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries.
The U.S. believes the crisis could "possibly even intensify", Heather Nauert, the spokeswoman for the state department, said on July 6.
Nauert has not specified which type of escalation may happen, but she noted that the U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson remains in close contact with the countries involved in conflict.
"We've become increasingly concerned that that dispute is at an impasse at this point. We believe that this could potentially drag on for weeks, it could drag on for months. It could possibly even intensify," she said.
On July 10, Tillerson is expected to visit Kuwait, which acts as a mediator in the dispute, to discuss efforts to resolve the Gulf crisis.
Meanwhile, Jim Mattis, the U.S. Defense Secretary has reaffirmed America's strategic security and defense partnership with Qatar.
Mattis stressed the importance of “de-escalating tensions so all partners in the Gulf region can focus on next steps in meeting common goals,” according to the Pentagon statement.
The U.S. stations some 10,000 troops at a huge Al-Udeid airbase in Qatar which play an essential role in fight against Islamic State.
Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, along with Egypt, cut diplomatic and transport ties with Qatar in early June, accusing the country of supporting "extremism" and Iran - the charges that Qatar has repeatedly denied.
The blockade has disrupted imports of food and other materials into Qatar and caused many foreign banks to scale back their business with the country.
The Gulf Arab states sent a list of demand and required Doha to cut diplomatic relations with Iran, close the Turkish military base, eliminate Al-Jazeera TV channel, extradite all persons wanted in four countries on charges of terrorism and pay compensation.
Currently, Kuwait is mediating the conflict in the Persian Gulf.
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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva
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