The Qatari government, under a Saudi Arabia-led blockade of its air, sea and land links, is unwilling to concede to any demands that threaten its sovereignty or violate international law, Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani said.

The small Persian Gulf emirate is prepared to let pass the deadline for complying with 13 demands set down by four nations in the region. The demands include closing the al-Jazeera television network and cutting back ties with Iran, Thani said on Saturday in Rome, where he met with his Italian counterpart.

"There is no fear from our direction. We are ready to face the consequences," he said. "There is an international law that should be respected and not violated."

Thani repeated that Qatar is willing to negotiate under the right circumstances. The ultimatum issued on June 23 was made to be rejected, he said.