Arabic version: دول الخليج تحتضن الاتفاق الأمريكي الإيراني بعد العدوان الإسرائيلي

Gulf states have expressed support for a recent agreement between the United States and Iran, aimed at ending a conflict they never desired. The six nations comprising the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) — Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman — view this breakthrough as a pragmatic necessity rather than a reconciliation with Iran. According to Al Jazeera, the ongoing war has prompted these nations to reassess their relationships with Tehran.

Since the 1979 Islamic revolution, Israel has sought to isolate Iran and its regional allies. However, recent military actions by Israel have inadvertently pushed Gulf states closer to Iran. Following a series of strikes on Iran by Israel and the US on February 28, Gulf nations have found themselves needing to engage with Tehran more pragmatically to prevent further conflict.

The GCC has welcomed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by the US and Iran, driven by a desire to end hostilities rather than a newfound trust in Tehran. Analysts note that Gulf states prefer diplomatic solutions over military confrontation to address Iran’s destabilizing actions in the region. They are particularly concerned about Iran’s use of drones and proxies, which pose immediate threats to their sovereignty.

In contrast to the past, when the Gulf states were skeptical of Iran’s intentions, the current situation has led them to play a more proactive role in US-Iran negotiations. Qatar, for instance, has emerged as a key mediator, representing GCC interests. The Gulf nations are focused on ensuring their security while navigating the complex dynamics of regional power.

Despite the challenges posed by both Israel and Iran, Gulf states are demonstrating a willingness to engage in dialogue as a means of maintaining stability in the region. This shift highlights a broader recalibration of foreign policy that prioritizes pragmatism over hostility, as they seek to safeguard their interests in an increasingly volatile environment.