Qatar says Arab states move to cut ties 'unjustified'

CAIRO – 5 May 2017: Qatar said it regretted the decision by Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain to cut diplomatic relations on Monday morning over allegations that Doha supports terrorism and holds threats against their security and stability.

The Qatari Foreign Ministry added in a Monday press statement that these measures are unjustified and are based on unfounded claims.

Oddly enough, the tiny emirate did not mention Egypt in the lead of its statement, however, it included later that the decision was taken “in coordination with Egypt.”
Later, the Yemeni Foreign Ministry also announced joining the decision to cut ties with Doha.

The five countries

broke diplomatic relations

with Gulf Arab state Qatar Monday morning, and announced they would withdraw their diplomatic staff from Qatar.

All flights to Qatar were suspended and all border crossings were closed as ties were severed.

The Qatari press statement added that Qatar was subjected to an incitement campaign that is based on allegations and fabrication of facts.

“The State of Qatar is an active member of the Gulf Cooperation Council, respects its charter, respects the sovereignty of other states and does not interfere in their internal affairs,” the Qatari Foreign Ministry said. “It also fulfills its obligations to combat terrorism and extremism.”

The ministry stressed that these measures aim to impose domination over the state, which the ministry considered a violation to its state sovereignty, something which Qatar completely objects according to the release.

The rift between Gulf Arab nations deepened during the recent period over Qatar's support for Islamist groups.

Qatar said the decisions would "not affect the normal lives of citizens and residents." It further added that the Qatari government will take all the necessary measures to ensure that and foil all attempts to negatively impact Qatar’s society, economy and citizens.