With Qatar's rejection of the demands made by the four Arab countries, the question now is: What next? The Qatari response bears all the hallmarks of a country hell-bent on maintaining its obstinate position, without the least interest in resolving the crisis. The rulers in Doha are aware that there are so many legitimate options available for Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain and Egypt. But are the rulers really aware of the dangers that could result from its rebellious policy? From its behavior, it is clear that Qatar prefers to remain frozen in a state that it has been over the last two decades – a state which has only benefitted countries and organizations sponsoring terrorism. These terrorist forces gleefully enjoyed the funding received from Qatar to carry on their destructive agenda. They puffed up the Qatari regime as a "savior of the oppressed" and glorified the Emir. Doha preferred to remain in this state of fantasy where it found gratification in the arms of dubious forces. As a first step to solving the crisis, Qatar needs to first wake up from this false sense of fulfillment. The Gulf and Arab states are trying their best to snap Qatar back into its senses. In fact, more and more countries are likely to become involved in the mission, though Qatar seems oblivious to these efforts. It has shown a determined stand to continue its policy of supporting terrorism and interfering in the internal affairs of other countries. There is an apparent vacuum in the way the Qatari authorities think. It is crossing every red line that marks the making or breaking of international relations. It is high time it comes around and faces reality, mends its ways, and returns to the warmth of the family. Qatari decision-makers, inside and outside the country, must recalculate their position and understand that it is in the interest of the tiny nation to adopt a friendly path. The security and stability of nations are not simple matters open to negotiations. This is the clear message sent out by the four countries to Qatar, which unfortunately, continues to be in a state of deep slumber.
