Qatar’s ambitions could lead to a messy divorce

Is Qatar serious about mediation efforts to resolve the crisis of confidence with Gulf countries? We have our doubts. Why would a country leak the official document listing the points of contention? The way forward would be to put serious thought to the matter, and address the concerns of Arab countries that had been patient with it. Ambition, not reason, has been the guiding principle for Qatar all along. The Saudi-led alliance is right in asking the tiny nation to severe ties with Iran. Trade can continue, and should. The alliance is not against business and prosperity. It is the ulterior motives of Iranian Revolutionary Guard and its leadership that raise doubts. Iran’s hegemonic intentions are no secret. The West is wary of it, and had slapped sanctions on it for years. Qatar’s close relationship with Iran, therefore, doesn’t bode well for the region. Other demands, too, are legit. Closing the Turkish military base, severing ties with terrorist organisations, funding terrorism, winding up the propaganda mill, etc. are needed to be done to start afresh. It must align itself completely with the expectations of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Qatar, however, remains indifferent, or so it seems. Its wealth could be one of the reasons behind this hubristic attitude. The wealth fund at $330 billion has helped it buy stakes across the West, and fund illegitimate activities. Yet, Qatar hasn’t achieved much. It can flourish as a pack. The region has plans to build a strong bloc, and collectively build stronger economies. It is about time Qatar changes its course. The Saudi-led alliance isn’t asking a lot but simply solid measures for fresh beginnings. Now, the ball is in Qatar’s court but the way things stand, it is hard to see the tiny nation making the right decision. A messy divorce could be in sight.