Bahrain restricts travel from Qatar as Gulf dispute lingers

In this May 14, 2010 file photo, a Qatari woman walks in front of the city skyline in Doha, Qatar. Saudi Arabia and three Arab countries severed ties to Qatar on June 5, 2017 and moved to cut off land, sea and air routes to the energy-rich nation that is home to a major U.S. military base, accusing it of supporting regional terror groups. AP Photo

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates—Bahrain now requires Qatari nationals and residents to obtain a visa prior to arrival, the latest move in the ongoing diplomatic rift between Qatar and its neighbors.

READ: Saudi, Bahrain, Egypt and UAE cut ties with Qatar

Bahrain’s Interior Ministry said Tuesday the decision to introduce visa requirements for people traveling from Qatar was made in order “to preserve the security and safety of the country.”

It cited Qatar’s “decision to strengthen its ties with Iran,” and said Qatar was offering “shelter” to alleged fugitives who threaten Bahrain’s security.

Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt severed ties with Qatar in early June, accusing it of sponsoring terrorism. Qatar denies the allegations.

The quartet also stopped direct flights to Qatar and expelled Qatari residents, with exceptions for mixed-nationality families. /jpv