Gulf States Urge U.S. to Address Iran's Military Threats in Ongoing Conflict

Gulf Arab states are advocating for a comprehensive U.S. strategy regarding Iran that goes beyond merely ending the ongoing conflict. They insist that any agreement must include enforceable measures to permanently limit Iran's missile and drone capabilities, as well as ensure that global energy supplies are not used as leverage in future conflicts. This sentiment was expressed by multiple Gulf sources, highlighting a shift in focus from the immediate cessation of hostilities to the establishment of a stable regional order post-conflict.

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The war has severely affected Gulf economies, which are heavily reliant on energy exports and tourism. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for approximately 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, have led to increased energy prices and inflation, straining supply chains. Gulf officials have expressed skepticism regarding U.S. intelligence claims that a significant portion of Iran's missile arsenal has been destroyed, citing past experiences where agreements failed to address Iran's broader military threats.

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The Gulf states, particularly the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, are unwilling to accept a post-war scenario where Iran retains the ability to threaten their security through missile attacks and proxy warfare. They have communicated to Washington that any agreement with Tehran must explicitly guarantee their security. Anwar Gargash, a presidential adviser in the UAE, emphasized that Iran's actions have necessitated a deeper security alignment with the U.S., framing the situation as a direct consequence of Iran's aggressive posture.

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U.S. President Donald Trump has extended the deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, indicating ongoing negotiations with Tehran. However, Gulf officials have made it clear that a simple ceasefire will not suffice. Yousef al-Otaiba, the UAE ambassador to the U.S., articulated that a conclusive outcome is necessary to address Iran's full range of threats, including its nuclear capabilities and military assets. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has also reinforced a unified stance against any agreement that does not prioritize Gulf security.

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Critics within the region have voiced concerns that any U.S. proposal perceived as one-sided could exacerbate tensions. An Iranian official described the U.S. approach as "unfair," demanding the closure of U.S. military bases in the Gulf as a precondition for negotiations. Additionally, some Gulf allies have cautioned against U.S. military escalation, fearing that deploying ground forces could lead to significant retaliation from Iran and further destabilize the region.

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• "A simple ceasefire isn’t enough. We need a conclusive outcome that addresses Iran’s full range of threats." — Yousef al-Otaiba, UAE Ambassador to the U.S.

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• "The Gulf has exercised restraint to avoid a wider war but will not accept being targeted again." — Jasem Al-Budaiwi, GCC Secretary-General

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• "The United States protects its interests, and Israel’s. Now it is our turn to protect and defend ours." — Anwar Gargash, UAE Presidential Adviser

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The Gulf states are thus urging the U.S. to take decisive action to degrade Iran's military capabilities, reflecting their strategic priorities in the face of ongoing threats.

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