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After tensions flared between Washington and Tehran following the Iranian government’s brutal crackdown on protesters, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman launched a major effort to prevent U.S. President Donald Trump from attacking Iran, out of fear that such a move would trigger a “devastating reaction in the region,” a senior Saudi official told AFP.
The Saudi official said the three Gulf countries carried out intense diplomatic efforts to persuade the U.S. president to give Iran’s leaders an opportunity to show remorse, adding that communication channels remain open to help build mutual trust.
How do the Persian Gulf countries view their “neighbor plagued by instability,” and what are their concerns about its current situation?
Gulf diplomacy in a critical moment.
The possibility of U.S. military action against Iran has been a key issue causing serious concern in Arab diplomatic efforts, especially among countries of the Gulf region.
This concern stems from their proximity to Iran. Although Iran is a neighbor to the Persian Gulf states, relations between them have fluctuated between tension, limited understanding, and at times a complete breakdown in relations.
However, the restoration of relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran in 2023, mediated by China, marked a moment that placed ties on new foundations, including respect for the principle of non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, in order to create a more stable diplomatic environment.
Within this context, several major Gulf cities have engaged in diplomatic outreach with various parties to prevent the outbreak of conflict over Iran, which could lead to a change of government.
The Persian Gulf countries possess significant economic power and substantial investments in the United States, while at the same time balancing their relations with other major world powers, including China.
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