Watan-In a detailed report by The Washington Post, Claire Parker and Steve Hendrix write that Arab states—especially in the Gulf—are increasingly fearful that they will bear the consequences of U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites and the potential expansion of war in the region.
While Gulf governments have historically taken hardline stances against Iran, the recent U.S. strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites have shaken regional stability and triggered alarms about threats to trade, energy exports, and internal security.
Key Points from the Report:
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Backlash from Allies: Saudi Arabia condemned the U.S. action as a violation of Iranian sovereignty, while the UAE voiced “deep concern.” Bahrain warned of “horrors of war,” and Oman accused the U.S. of violating international law.
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Regional Diplomacy: Calls mounted across the Arab world for immediate de-escalation and a return to negotiations, in stark contrast to the region’s prior support for using force against Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
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Shift in Gulf Politics: Gulf nations, once in favor of Trump’s maximum pressure campaign, are now recalibrating. Saudi Arabia restored ties with Iran in 2023. The UAE reduced tensions with both Iran and Turkey, while normalizing relations with Israel.
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Risk of Retaliation: Iran has threatened to strike American military installations across the region, including in Bahrain, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Iraq, and Jordan. Bahrain, home to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, is especially vulnerable.
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Economic Fears: Oil production and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could be disrupted. Countries like Egypt, already struggling economically, fear further decline if the war escalates.
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Unified Arab Position: At an emergency Arab League meeting, all 22 member states condemned the Israeli strikes on Iran and urged diplomatic resolution.
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Local Emergency Responses: Bahrain ordered 70% of government workers to work from home. Kuwait activated its financial emergency continuity plan. Jordan held a national security meeting as residents witnessed Iranian missiles fly toward Israel.
Expert Commentary:
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Renad Mansour (Chatham House): “This is a real war now. The Gulf prioritizes business, and instability is bad for business.”
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H.A. Hellyer (RUSI): “Arab states didn’t want war and didn’t want these strikes. They hoped Trump would rein in Israel. Instead, it seems like the fire is spreading.”
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