The ongoing dispute in the Middle East between Qatar and several Arab countries will now include Turkey, as well as United States mediators, as part of the negotiation process. Despite the efforts expected to be made by Turkish officials, some believe the progress will be limited because of the country’s pro-Doha stance.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu spent time touring three Gulf Nations including Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia with the goal of breaking the blockage imposed on Qatar by the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Bahrain. However, those familiar with the dispute believe Turkey is perceived as pro-Qatar in the matter and that no matter what diplomats due to move toward a resolution, it can only be somewhat effective and will be unlikely to bring an end to the situation.

The dispute began in early June when Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Bahrain, with the support of other Muslim nations, cut of diplomatic ties with Qatar. They also closed the sea, air, and land links because they believed the country was a sponsor of terrorism. They also accused Qatar of interfering with internal affair and “cultivating warm ties with Iran.” Turkey has opted to join in the fray in an effort to display its clout. The United States is participating in negotiation efforts and Turkey is in a feud with the United States.

So far, the meetings between leaders of the nations and Turkish officials have been mostly closed to the press. There was no major progress reported during the three-day tour by Turkish officials, and many believe it will be extremely difficult for Turkey to accomplish its goal of playing mediator successfully.