Gulf states’ scepticism over alleged US-Iran talks signals a distrust of Trump

Reluctance to cheerlead alleged US ceasefire efforts reflects suspicion talk of peace could be another foil for escalation

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Not long after Donald Trump said the US was engaged in strong talks" to bring the war with Iran to an end this week, Qatar took the unusual step of distancing itself from the alleged diplomatic negotiations.

Qatar was not involved in any mediation efforts, said Majed al-Ansari at a briefing on Tuesday night, before adding as a telling aside: If they exist."