Regional allies increase coordination with Washington while avoiding direct entry into expanding conflict.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Gulf nations are adjusting their strategic posture as escalating Iranian attacks across the region strain years of efforts to balance relations between Washington and Tehran, according to a Fox News report.
Countries including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have historically maintained a dual-track approach, preserving diplomatic and economic ties with Iran while relying on U.S. security guarantees. That approach is now being tested as missile and drone strikes expand across multiple Gulf states.
Officials and analysts say the increase in attacks is narrowing the space for neutrality, prompting greater alignment with the United States on defense and security matters.
One indication of that shift is a reported decision by Saudi Arabia to allow U.S. forces access to King Fahd Air Base in Taif, a facility located deeper within the country and previously unused for American combat operations since the Gulf War. Reporting cited in the Wall Street Journal indicated the arrangement would provide the United States with greater strategic depth compared to bases closer to the Persian Gulf.
The Pentagon and Saudi officials have not publicly confirmed the move.
Elsewhere in the region, the United Arab Emirates has severed diplomatic ties with Iran, shut down Iranian-linked entities and initiated crackdowns on networks associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps following a series of attacks.
Bahrain has led efforts at the United Nations to pass a Security Council resolution condemning Iranian strikes, while Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait have issued joint statements denouncing the attacks and asserting their right to self-defense.
Despite these steps, Gulf officials indicated they remain opposed to strikes targeting critical infrastructure inside Iran, while continuing to support efforts to limit Tehran’s missile programs, uranium enrichment and regional proxy activities.
Qatar has also taken action by expelling Iranian military and security attachés after strikes on energy infrastructure, though it has maintained diplomatic ties and continues to act as an intermediary. The Qatari prime minister traveled to Washington this week for discussions centered on defense cooperation and energy security.
President Donald Trump said regional governments were surprised by the expansion of Iranian attacks. “They start shooting in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Oman,” he said during a Cabinet meeting. “They start shooting at them. And they were — they were. Everybody was shocked, including us. You know why? Because they’re sick. And they had a plan to take over the Middle East.”
Since late February, Iran has launched hundreds of missiles and drones targeting Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait, following the start of the current conflict. Prior diplomatic efforts, including a 2023 agreement restoring ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran, did not prevent the escalation.
U.S. military operations in the region have traditionally relied on bases closer to the Gulf, such as Prince Sultan Air Base, which remain more exposed to missile and drone threats. Interior locations like Taif offer increased distance from potential strike zones and additional warning time.
Analysts said Gulf countries are balancing increased cooperation with caution about long-term consequences.
“They have to be very careful even now,” said Ehud Eilam, a former Israeli Defense Forces officer. “They know that they would have to live with Iran after the war.”
James Robbins, dean of the Institute of World Politics, said Gulf states face structural limitations. “They’re small countries and they’re hard to defend,” he said, adding that Iran could rebuild its capabilities over time. “Iran will come back. They will rebuild… and they will be out for revenge.”
Experts said potential areas for expanded cooperation include air defense, intelligence sharing and maritime operations. Securing the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for global oil supplies, has been identified as a possible focus for joint efforts.
“Their best mission would be securing the Strait of Hormuz,” Eilam said, referring to coordinated naval and air operations to protect shipping lanes.
At the same time, Gulf leaders continue to pursue diplomatic solutions. Saudi Arabia recently hosted regional discussions aimed at exploring a ceasefire, reflecting ongoing efforts to limit the scope of the conflict.
The evolving posture of Gulf states reflects a narrowing strategic path, with governments increasing alignment with Washington while avoiding direct involvement in combat operations as the regional conflict continues.
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