Analysis: Why Trump’s Gulf allies are resisting pressure to join the Iran war
Airfind news item
By Abbas Al Lawati
Published on March 12, 2026.
The Gulf states have been targeted by Iranian missiles and drones since the Iran war began, with over 2,000 projectiles fired at Gulf states. Both sides are using this to gain leverage over the Gulf, with Iran hoping the attacks will drive them away from Washington. The US and Israel are also using this tactic to pressure Arab governments to join the war. However, Gulf Arab nations have consistently declined to participate in the conflict. There are concerns that the US prioritized Israel's security over those of its Arab allies and that Iran will remain a permanent neighbor. The region is wary of being drawn into a wider war, which they may ultimately have to manage alone. The conflict could force Riyadh to fight on multiple fronts, including along its southern border with Yemen and potentially escalate by striking Iranian drone sites or attacking infrastructure infrastructure.
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