Six Arab countries have cut ties with tiny nation of Qatar. Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Libya and Yemen have all cut relations with Qatar because they say Qatar gives money to and supports terrorist groups. Saudi Arabia said it has cut ties to protect its own national security. It said Qatar was home to many "terrorist and sectarian groups that aim to create instability in region". Qatar government said this was not true and that there are no facts that show there are terrorist groups in Qatar. It said other Arab countries are acting unfairly towards Qatar. It also said that decisions of Arab countries would, "not affect normal lives of citizens and residents" in Qatar.
Qatar is now facing uncertain and difficult future, unless normal relations are restored. Air, land and sea links have been closed to Qatar from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt and Bahrain. This will cause lot of trouble for people living in tiny Gulf Arab country. Most of its food enters by truck from Saudi Arabia and there is already rush to buy food in supermarkets. Qatar Airways will also be badly affected because it has to change its routes, so flights will take much longer. construction of eight stadiums for 2022 soccer World Cup could also slow down as building materials have to enter Qatar via Saudi. Citizens from Saudi, UAE and Bahrain have been banned from going to Qatar and have 14 days to leave.
