Saudi Arabia and Qatar are leading diplomatic negotiations to resolve conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Despite a complicated relationship marked by past tensions, both nations are leveraging their strategic ties with the U.S. and their unique regional influence to act as key mediators. Their divergent foreign policies illustrate a rivalry, yet their collaborative efforts aim to address pressing global issues.
Saudi Arabia and Qatar are emerging as pivotal players in global peace negotiations, particularly concerning the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Saudi Arabia is facilitating discussions among the United States, Ukraine, and Russia in Jeddah, while Qatar is hosting talks between Israel and Hamas in Doha aimed at extending a truce and establishing a durable peace framework.
Despite their close ties with the United States, particularly with President Donald Trump, the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Qatar has experienced strains. In 2017, a diplomatic crisis arose as Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries severed relations with Qatar, accusing it of supporting extremist entities. This discord persisted until the Al-Ula Agreement was signed in January 2021.
While both nations are united in the Gulf Cooperation Council alongside other nations, their foreign policies often diverge, particularly concerning security and regional conflicts. This rivalry is evident in their differing stances on the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas, with Qatar supporting the former while Saudi Arabia opposes it. Their approaches to the Palestinian Authority further highlight their divergent views.
In the context of the Ukraine conflict, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have found common ground by proposing mediation efforts, fostering balanced relations with both Moscow and Kyiv. Qatar has established a strong reputation for mediating between the U.S. and various armed groups, most notably as a facilitator in the U.S.-Taliban talks. Saudi Arabia has also engaged in significant diplomatic negotiations, including discussions that contributed to the resolution of Lebanon’s civil war.
Experts assert that both countries possess the necessary relationships and interests to succeed in their mediation roles. Observers maintain that Qatar’s connection with Hamas and Saudi Arabia’s relationship with the Trump administration enhance their capacities as diplomatic intermediaries.
Several notable figures have recognized Saudi Arabia’s effectiveness as a mediator due to its neutral stance and balanced policy toward all parties involved. However, experts also express concern regarding Saudi Arabia’s limitations regarding direct negotiations with Israel due to the absence of formal relations.
Diplomatic watchers emphasize a shared ambition among Gulf states to enhance their roles in international mediation. Observations suggest that the strategic partnership with the U.S. provides Saudi Arabia a unique opportunity to influence negotiations effectively, while Qatar’s existing ties to Hamas solidify its position as a suitable intermediary in Palestinian negotiations.
Saudi Arabia and Qatar are asserting themselves as influential diplomatic actors in addressing significant global conflicts, leveraging their unique positions and relationships. While their rivalry is underscored by differing foreign policies, their shared objectives enable them to act as crucial mediators globally. The ongoing negotiations in both nations are pivotal in seeking resolutions for the crises in Ukraine and Gaza, reflecting both states’ broader diplomatic ambitions as they aim for greater global influence.
Original Source: themedialine.org
