In a remarkable development that reflects a sensitive shift in the positions of US allies in the region, the Gulf states, led by Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are approaching a more stringent phase in dealing with Iran, against the backdrop of escalating attacks that targeted their vital facilities and affected their economic stability.
According to a report published by the Wall Street Journal, the Gulf states are “gradually approaching” involvement in the confrontation, although this is still within indirect limits, by supporting American military operations and enhancing economic pressure on Tehran.
In this context, Saudi Arabia agreed to allow American forces to use its air bases, in a move that represents a shift from its previous position of refusing to engage in any direct attack, especially after it was subjected to missile and drone attacks that targeted energy facilities and the vicinity of the capital, Riyadh.
Data indicate that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is closer to making a more decisive decision regarding participation, in light of Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan’s assertion that the Kingdom’s patience “is not without limits” towards the repeated attacks.
As for the UAE, it has tended to tighten economic measures, by closing institutions linked to Iran within its territory, as part of efforts to reduce the financial influence associated with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, in addition to threatening more stringent measures that may include freezing large financial assets.
Despite the official denial of any direct military participation, field indicators indicate an undeclared role in the escalation, in light of the exchange of strikes and the targeting of military bases and vital installations, which reflects a dangerous escalation in the pace of tension.
Regional concerns also increased after Iran threatened to impose greater control over the Strait of Hormuz, which is one of the most important sea lanes for global energy transport, which puts the global economy before additional challenges if the crisis worsens.
In parallel, the Gulf states are putting pressure on the administration of US President Donald Trump to continue operations against Iran before any potential negotiations, fearing that stopping the escalation will leave them in direct confrontation with Tehran without sufficient guarantees.
However, these countries realize that direct involvement in the war may carry greater risks, especially in light of the possibility of the American position changing suddenly, which puts them before a complex equation between escalation and caution.
In conclusion, the Gulf states face difficult choices: either engage in the confrontation to protect their strategic interests, or remain in the position of observer as Iranian influence increases, in a regional scene that is heading towards greater tension and complexity.
