Saudi Arabia suspends talks with Qatar

Saudi Arabia on Saturday suspended any further dialogue with Qatar, accusing it of “distorting facts” after the Qatar News Agency reported of a phone call between the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani on Friday, describing it as a breakthrough in the Gulf dispute.

In June, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Bahrain cut diplomatic, transport and trade links with Qatar, accusing their Gulf neighbor of supporting and financing terrorism.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, Qatar’s Emir initiated the call, in which he expressed a desire to discuss the demands of the Arab quartet.

"During the call, the Emir of Qatar expressed his desire to sit at the dialogue table and discuss the demands of the four countries to ensure the interests of all," SPA reported.

The Kingdom will announce details later after it concludes an understanding with the UAE, Bahrain, and Egypt, the statement added.

QNA said the phone call was based on coordination by U.S. President Donald Trump and Sheikh Tamim.

Trump on Thursday said he would be willing to mediate between the Arab states and Qatar, adding that he thinks a deal could come quickly.