Gulf states seek diplomacy to avoid wider regional war with Iran despite attacks: Analysis

The Iran-Israel war has entered its 11th day, raising fears of a wider regional conflict and increasing pressure on Gulf countries facing missile and drone attacks.
Speaking to Al Jazeera, Iran and Gulf analyst Luciano Zaccara and Saudi affairs specialist Ahmed Alibrahim discussed the Gulf states’ response and the wider regional implications.
Alibrahim said Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Cooperation Council states are trying to remain calm and prioritise diplomacy despite ongoing attacks.
He said Gulf states want to avoid being dragged into a wider war with Iran because conflict would undermine regional stability, economic growth and long-term development plans.
Alibrahim added that Gulf countries are working through diplomatic channels, including direct communication with Iran and engagement with the United States, to push for de-escalation.
He warned that a prolonged war would harm global energy markets and could force Gulf states to reconsider economic arrangements with Washington.
Zaccara said Gulf countries largely share the same goal of preventing escalation and remain open to mediation efforts led by states such as Qatar and Oman.
However, he noted that Iran appears to be targeting Gulf states differently, with the UAE facing heavier attacks than others.
Zaccara said this strategy may reflect calculations about which countries are more likely to retaliate or play mediation roles.
He added that the region has been undergoing major geopolitical changes since October 2023, with military force increasingly shaping international relations.

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