Gulf Allies Urge Continued U.S. Military Action Against Iran
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are pressing President Trump to persist with military operations against Iran, asserting that the current campaign has not sufficiently weakened Tehran.
Gulf allies of the United States, notably Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, are advocating for the continuation of military operations against Iran, contending that the month-long U.S.-led bombing campaign has not adequately diminished Tehran's capabilities. These nations view the current situation as a historic opportunity to significantly weaken or potentially dismantle Iran's clerical regime.
Initially, some Gulf states expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of advance notice regarding the U.S.-Israeli attack and voiced concerns about the potential regional repercussions. However, they are now urging the White House to maintain pressure on Iran until substantial changes occur within its leadership or a significant shift in its behavior is observed.
The degree of support among Gulf nations varies. The United Arab Emirates has emerged as particularly assertive, advocating for a ground invasion to further debilitate Iran's military capabilities. Kuwait and Bahrain align with this stance, while Oman and Qatar prefer diplomatic solutions. The UAE's position is influenced by over 2,300 missile and drone attacks from Iran, which have adversely affected its economy and international image.
Saudi Arabia emphasizes that ending the conflict prematurely would not yield a favorable outcome, stressing the need to neutralize Iran's nuclear program, dismantle its ballistic missile capabilities, and terminate its support for proxy groups. Additionally, ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open is a priority, given its significance in global oil transportation.
The White House has not publicly commented on these deliberations. However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the alignment between the U.S. and its Gulf allies regarding Iran, stating,
"They are religious zealots who can never be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon because they have an apocalyptic vision of the future. And all of their neighbors know that, by the way, which is why all of their neighbors have been supportive of the efforts we're conducting."
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia has communicated to U.S. officials that further diminishing Iran's military capabilities and clerical leadership aligns with the long-term interests of the Gulf region. Nonetheless, Saudi Arabia remains cautious about potential retaliatory strikes on its energy infrastructure, which is vital to its economy.
President Trump has acknowledged the support from Gulf nations, noting their unity in the ongoing conflict. He praised countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates for their bravery and alignment with U.S. efforts.
Despite hosting U.S. forces and bases used for launching strikes on Iran, Gulf countries have not directly participated in offensive operations. Factors such as the risk of friendly fire incidents and diplomatic sensitivities, particularly concerning Israel, have influenced this decision. Iran has warned of targeting its neighbors' critical infrastructure, including desalination plants, if the U.S. proceeds with further strikes.