The impact of the Qatari-Gulf crisis on regional powers Türkiye and Egypt 2017-2020)

Abstract

This research analyzes the diplomatic crisis that gripped the Arabian Gulf region in 2017, which involved the severing of relations between Qatar and several Arab states, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the UAE. The research focuses on the political and regional factors that exacerbated this crisis, most notably differing stances on the events of the Arab Spring and support for certain political movements in the region. The crisis escalated when Qatar was accused of using its media outlets to promote groups considered extremist by these countries, particularly the Muslim Brotherhood, and of attempting to destabilize the region. Qatar's close relationship with Turkey also played a significant role in complicating the crisis, and its growing ties with Turkey contributed to its deepening, given the differing ideological and political orientations between Turkey and some Gulf states. Turkey possesses military, economic, and political capabilities that have enabled it to strengthen its presence in the Middle East, leading it to play an influential role during the Gulf crisis. This was exemplified by the establishment of a Turkish military base on Qatari soil, a move considered crucial for protecting the shared interests of both parties. In contrast, Egypt stood with the boycotting countries, supporting the positions of the Gulf Cooperation Council against Qatar and accusing it of supporting extremist groups that threaten the security and stability of the region. Egypt also sought to contribute to diplomatic efforts aimed at settling the crisis, based on its understanding that the crisis reflects a broader conflict over regional influence in the Middle East. The research concludes that the Qatari crisis was not just a political dispute between the Gulf states, but rather a reflection of regional and ideological competition between multiple powers in the region.