Iran Conflict Strengthens Gulf Security Ties, But Foreign Policy Remains Divided

The ongoing conflict involving Iran has spurred greater security cooperation among Gulf states, fundamentally altering the region's security architecture. While these nations are collaborating more closely, they continue to pursue distinct foreign policy interests, preventing a truly unified approach.

Experts observe two contrasting trends. On one hand, many Arab states face similar threats emanating from Iran, including potential missile and drone attacks on energy infrastructure and the risk of the Strait of Hormuz being closed. This shared vulnerability has heightened awareness of common security interests, leading to intensified collaboration in intelligence sharing, military activity coordination, and the protection of maritime navigation and trade routes.

On the other hand, political rivalries within the region have not dissipated. While practical coordination is growing, particularly in areas like air defense and aligning foreign policy stances, significant differences remain. Nations like Oman and Qatar favor mediation, whereas Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates adopt considerably firmer positions toward Iran.

The limits of this cooperation are evident. According to the Congressional Research Service, while practical coordination is increasing, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states maintain divergent strategies regarding Iran. There is no elaborate joint strategy; cooperation primarily occurs where immediate shared interests align, such as protecting maritime navigation or critical infrastructure. Consequently, analysts caution against interpreting these developments as a sign of new Arab unity.

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Ipak, među njima postoje značajne razlike. Oman i Katar oslanjaju se na posredovanje, dok Saudijska Arabija i Ujedinjeni Arapski Emirati prema Iranu zauzimaju delimično znatno tvrđe pozicije.