The Middle East is currently embroiled in conflict, which escalated on February 28 when Israel and the US launched joint strikes against critical Iranian installations, resulting in the death of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This intensified situation has led to a rapid depletion of air defence resources in Gulf states, which experts say may run out of their stockpiles within a week. The increasing reliance on these systems is at an unsustainable pace due to the sustained threats posed by Iranian missiles and drones.

With ongoing strikes from Iran targeting key sites across the region in retaliation for the attacks, the capacity of Gulf countries to fend off these threats is diminishing. Experts emphasize that the current pace of depleting air defence stocks could leave these nations vulnerable to more Iranian aggression. This worrying scenario highlights the precarious security situation in a region already fraught with tension and instability.

The potential expiration of air defence resources in the Gulf would not only heighten regional security risks but could also have broader implications for international relations, especially regarding US involvement and support for its allies. Heightening concerns over potential Iranian attacks may prompt Gulf countries to seek alternative strategies or military alliances as they navigate the complex dynamics of the Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape.