Qatar Leads Most Major Gulf Stocks Lower -- Market Talk

1439 GMT - Qatar leads most major Gulf stock markets lower as investors weigh heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran. Qatar's QE Index falls 0.9% and Abu Dhabi's benchmark index declines 0.7%, though Saudi Arabia's Tadawul All Share Index gains 0.3%. President Trump has threatened a major new economic campaign against Iran and countries or entities that continue doing business with Tehran, as frustration mounts over the lack of progress toward reopening the Strait of Hormuz or reaching a deal to end the war. Trump hasn't specified what additional measures Washington plans beyond existing sanctions. (farhan.rafid@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

August 20, 2026 10:39 ET (14:39 GMT)