Gulf States Urge US to Neutralize Iran as War Intensifies
Gulf Arab states, while not initially seeking direct military intervention from the US in the ongoing conflict with Iran, are now increasingly pressing for a decisive response that prevents Iran from threatening the region’s vital oil infrastructure and economies. This shift comes as the war enters its third week, marked by escalating airstrikes and Iranian attacks targeting Gulf states, Israel and international shipping.
From Restraint to Demand for Decisive Action
Initially, Gulf states advocated for de-escalation and opposed military action. However, following direct attacks on their territories – including airports, ports, oil facilities, and commercial hubs – their stance has hardened. According to sources familiar with government thinking, there’s a growing consensus that Iran has “crossed every red line” and must be neutralized.
“At first we defended them and opposed the war,” said Abdulaziz Sager, chairman of the Saudi-based Gulf Research Center. “But once they began directing strikes at us, they became an enemy. There is no other way to classify them.”
US Seeking Regional Backing
Simultaneously, the United States, under President Donald Trump, is reportedly seeking explicit regional support for its military campaign against Iran. Washington aims to bolster the international and domestic legitimacy of the war by demonstrating a united front with its Gulf allies.
The Strait of Hormuz: A Critical Vulnerability
A key concern driving the Gulf states’ shift is Iran’s demonstrated ability to disrupt the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil supplies. Iran’s actions threaten not only regional economies but also the stability of the global energy market. The potential for Iran to hold the region’s energy lifeline hostage is seen as an unacceptable risk.
“Now that Iran has shown it can shut down Hormuz, the Gulf faces a fundamentally different threat,” said Bernard Haykel, professor of Near Eastern studies at Princeton University.
Collective Security Concerns and Regional Hesitation
While Gulf states acknowledge the threat, unilateral military action remains off the table. Sources indicate a preference for collective intervention to avoid exposing individual countries to Iranian retaliation. However, achieving consensus among the six members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) – Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman and the UAE – has proven challenging, with only one Zoom call convened to date.
The UAE has expressed a desire to avoid escalation, particularly after Iran suggested the US used Emirati territory for strikes. However, Saudi Arabia, Iran’s main regional rival, may be compelled to retaliate if Iran targets major oil facilities, desalination plants, or causes significant casualties.
US Response and International Implications
The White House has stated its commitment to “crushing [Iran’s] ability to shoot these weapons or produce more,” and maintains close contact with its Middle Eastern partners. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has noted that Gulf partners are “stepping up” and working with Washington on air defenses.
The conflict has broader international implications, with potential impacts on global energy markets and shipping routes. Some analysts suggest that China, a major consumer of Gulf oil, may also have a role to play in securing maritime routes, mirroring its past efforts off the coast of Somalia.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the primary concern of Gulf states regarding Iran? Iran’s ability to disrupt oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz and threaten regional stability.
- Is the US receiving full support from Gulf states in the war against Iran? Gulf states are urging the US to take decisive action but are hesitant to fully commit themselves without a collective regional response.
- What is the role of the Strait of Hormuz in this conflict? It’s a critical waterway for global oil supplies, and Iran’s ability to control it poses a significant threat to regional and global economies.
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