The Gulf Arab states are increasingly questioning their longstanding alignment with Washington in light of the ongoing conflict involving Iran. Amid missile and drone strikes that have targeted their territories, leaders in the region express a growing sense of vulnerability and discontent regarding U.S. support.
A quote attributed to former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has resurfaced: “Those who wrap themselves in America end up naked.” This sentiment reflects the belief among Gulf states that reliance on American protection may leave them exposed amid rising tensions. As the Iran conflict escalates, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are grappling with the implications of U.S. military strategies in the region.
In the initial days of the conflict, these states adopted a cautious public stance, uncertain about the duration and intensity of Iranian retaliation. Unlike Iran’s previous assaults during the war with Israel last June, which were relatively brief, the current wave of strikes appears to be more prolonged.
Discussions behind closed doors have begun to emerge into the public arena, revealing differing opinions on culpability. The United Arab Emirates has suffered the heaviest impact, prompting some leaders to suggest that Iran’s actions are designed to compel GCC nations to pressure Washington into re-evaluating its military interventions.
In a recent post on X, former Arab League Secretary-General Amr Moussa characterized the strikes on Iran as a “strategic American move.” He posited that the U.S. aims to reshape the Middle East into a geopolitical order favorable to Israel. Veteran Saudi journalist Abdulrahman al-Rashed countered this framing, emphasizing that Iran poses a direct threat to its neighbors and has historically pursued expansionist policies detrimental to regional stability.
The dialogue has sparked further responses from various regional figures. Lt. Gen. Dhahi Khalfan, deputy police chief of Dubai, noted that threats from both Israel and Iran have destabilized the Arab world, emphasizing the need for self-reliance rather than dependence on external powers. Business tycoon Khalaf Al Habtoor echoed this sentiment, asserting that regional nations must trust their capabilities over alliances that do not align with their interests.
The exchange between Moussa and al-Rashed highlights a significant shift in discourse among Arab elites. Both represent perspectives that resonate with a growing realization that Gulf states can no longer fully rely on U.S. support. The debate illustrates three prevailing views among Arab leaders: one aligned with Iran’s ideological opposition to Israel, another reflecting the historical impact of Iranian influence on GCC countries, and a third that seeks to balance the perceived threats from both Iran and Israel.
Public statements from Gulf leaders have become more pronounced. Mohammed bin Zayed, President of the UAE, emphasized resilience during a hospital visit to those injured in recent attacks. He asserted that the UAE remains a formidable entity, warning adversaries that it will not succumb to intimidation.
Similarly, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani expressed feelings of betrayal in light of the shifting dynamics, stating that recent aggressions have irreparably damaged Qatar’s relationship with Iran. His remarks signal a newfound assertiveness among Gulf leaders, indicating a recognition that they cannot continue to rely solely on external allies for security.
As the conflict continues, Gulf countries face the dual challenge of defending their territories while managing a coordinated campaign that threatens to draw them deeper into the war. U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham recently suggested that the GCC may need to become more involved, prompting a strong rebuttal from Al Habtoor, who reminded him that it was the U.S., not the Gulf states, that instigated the conflict.
The debate surrounding the Gulf’s response to the Iran conflict illustrates a critical juncture for these nations. As they navigate their complex relationships with the U.S., Iran, and Israel, the need for a unified and proactive stance appears increasingly vital. The ongoing discussions reveal a region grappling with its identity and security in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
