The Gulf states, having invested in diplomatic relations with Iran, reacted with alarm as the US and Israel launched a coordinated strike against Tehran, prompting Iranian missile threats towards its neighbors.
On February 28, 2026, a coordinated attack by the United States and Israel on Iran, termed 'Epic Fury' by Washington, sent shockwaves through the Gulf states rather than eliciting relief. These countries had invested extensive diplomatic efforts over the years to avoid such a scenario, engaging in serious dialogue with Tehran and maintaining diplomatic missions, all while assuring that their territories would not be used as launching points for aggression against Iran. The Iranian response, which involved targeting neighboring states with missiles, not only signifies a major strategic miscalculation but also poses a severe moral and legal dilemma that threatens to poison relationships for generations to come.
The Gulf Cooperation Council states entered this crisis not with hostility towards Iran, but rather as neutral parties aimed at de-escalation. They have historically sought to mediate carefully between Washington and Tehran, often without receiving accolades for their efforts. Saudi Arabia, for instance, adopted a dialogue-centric approach as early as 2019, aiming to establish a framework for cooperation and stability, thus showcasing their commitment to peaceful relations in the face of growing tensions.
