Tensions are still high between Qatar and Gulf states, with diplomatic ties severed, supplies to the state cut off and airspace closed to Qatari aircraft. 

Though it hasn’t come to military intervention. 

And the UAE Ambassador to the United States has made a statement about why that may be the case. 

Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba made statement to reporters, saying the lack of intervention is likely linked to the presence of a US airbase in Qatar

Al-Udeid air base is in Qatar, near Doha and is home to about 10,000 US troops. 

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Otaiba told reporters: “If I want to be honest, I think the reason action hasn’t been taken against Qatar is because of the air base.

“The air base is a very nice insurance policy against any additional pressure.”

He also said the UAE would be happy to accommodate the airbase, should the US be seeking alternative locations

Otaiba said the UAE is ready and willing to have conversations about the relocation of the US airbase to the emirates, according to Bloomberg.

He also said: “Maybe someone in Congress should have a hearing and just say, you know, ‘Should we consider moving it?’

 “And maybe not moving the entire base. Maybe just distribute to various countries so you don’t have all your eggs in one basket.”