The Gulf states are reevaluating their long-standing relationship with the United States in light of the ongoing conflict involving Iran. A saying attributed to former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has gained traction recently, reflecting a sentiment among Gulf leaders: “Those who wrap themselves in America end up naked.” This phrase captures a growing concern that reliance on American military support leaves the Gulf nations vulnerable, especially as they face intensified threats from Iran.
Initial responses from the Gulf states during the early days of the Iran conflict were subdued. Concerns lingered over the duration and intensity of Iranian missile and drone strikes, particularly those targeting the United Arab Emirates (UAE). As the conflict stretched beyond a week, it became evident that the Iranian retaliation would not be brief, prompting leaders in the region to speak out.
Amr Moussa, the former secretary-general of the Arab League, commented on social media, describing the strikes on Iran as a calculated American strategy to reshape the Middle East under Israeli leadership. This assertion sparked a counterargument from veteran Saudi journalist Abdulrahman al-Rashed, who emphasized that Iran poses a direct threat to its regional neighbors, including the Gulf states, Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen. He underscored that these countries have suffered for decades under the weight of Iranian aggression.
The discourse around the conflict has deepened, with various leaders and commentators expressing differing views. Lt. Gen. Dhahi Khalfan from Dubai’s police department noted that threats from both Israel and Iran are intertwined, suggesting that the Arab world cannot depend solely on external powers like the U.S. for protection. Similarly, Khalaf Al Habtoor, a prominent UAE businessman, criticized the dual threats from both nations, stating that regional countries should rely on their own capabilities rather than on alliances that may not align with their interests.
As discussions gain momentum, the perspectives of influential figures like Moussa and al-Rashed reflect a broader debate within the Arab world regarding the implications of American, Iranian, and Israeli actions. Some view the conflict as a binary struggle between Iran and Israel, while others recognize the complexities of regional hegemony and the destabilizing roles both nations play.
The response from Gulf leaders has become more pronounced. Mohammed bin Zayed, President of the UAE, made rare public remarks, asserting the nation’s resilience and readiness to withstand intimidation. He stated, “All is well in the UAE,” while visiting injured citizens in a hospital, warning adversaries that the UAE is not an easy target.
In a similar vein, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, the Qatari Prime Minister, expressed feelings of betrayal due to the changing dynamics with Iran, emphasizing the deterioration of their previous relations. His comments, delivered during an interview with Sky News, indicated a newfound assertiveness among Gulf leaders, as they recognize the limitations of relying on external allies for security.
As the conflict escalates, Gulf countries find themselves navigating a complex landscape of regional threats, while simultaneously facing pressure to engage more directly in the conflict. Comments from U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham suggested that the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) could increase its involvement in the war, a proposition met with resistance from Al Habtoor, who reminded that the U.S. initiated this conflict without proper consultation with regional leaders.
The evolving situation in the Gulf highlights a crucial turning point, as leaders grapple with the consequences of foreign interventions and reassess their alliances. As tensions with Iran continue to escalate, the Gulf states are beginning to assert their autonomy, signaling a potential shift in their longstanding dependence on American support.
