Iran has warned Gulf Arab states not to be used by the United States to launch attacks against Iran, as such actions would bring more harm than benefit. If even the U.S. has moved its aircraft carriers far away from Iran to avoid being attacked and destroyed, these neighboring countries should act with greater prudence.
In this war, the pain index varies among the six Gulf countries.
After several rounds of escalation, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait are quietly working behind the scenes to push for a swift end to the conflict. Kuwait, being one of the closest neighbors to Iran, hopes to minimize losses as soon as possible. Qatar, too, has adopted a passive stance, stating that Iran is ultimately an unavoidable neighbor.
The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain show stronger resistance, having prepared themselves for potential escalation. They refuse to accept a post-war scenario in which Iran still holds control over the Strait of Hormuz as a bargaining chip.
For example, the UAE—one of the countries suffering the highest pain index—saw Dubai property prices drop by 20% within just one week of war onset. Yet, it continues to signal willingness to allow its territory to be used for attacks on Iran. In reality, the UAE faces Iran across the Strait of Hormuz and cannot escape their geographic proximity. Thus, their strategic thinking should be more forward-looking. For the UAE, the greatest interest lies in ensuring a peaceful environment in the Gulf region free from external interference, thereby safeguarding the technological and economic achievements made over the past 30 years.
One thing remains consistent: all six Gulf states have told the United States that any agreement reached with Iran must do more than simply end the war—it must permanently limit Iran’s missile and drone capabilities, and guarantee that global energy supplies will never again be "weaponized."
They still believe in America.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1860855703755163/
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