The conflict with Iran continuing for months has intensified criticism of the US role in the region in the Gulf states. Officials in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain have begun to assess the Trump administration’s approach more critically because a diplomatic solution has not been reached.
A Gulf official argued that the countries in the region were bearing the cost of the war launched by the United States. The official said anger toward Washington had reached its highest level since the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran in February.
US military presence in the Gulf faces renewed scrutiny
The continued missile and drone attacks by groups linked to Iran have prompted some Gulf countries to reassess the security benefits provided by the US military presence. These countries have begun questioning the benefits of hosting large US military facilities on their territory.
A Western diplomat serving in the region said the debate did not amount to a fundamental change in attitudes toward the United States. The diplomat said American forces had not been enthusiastically welcomed in the region even before the war, adding that their presence was viewed more as a necessary choice and that this necessity was now being questioned.
No final agreement on Trump’s approach to Iran
Unease increased after Trump threatened to take further action against Iran and then appeared to back down by announcing that progress had been made in diplomatic talks. Washington and Tehran have yet to reach a final agreement to end the conflict.
A White House official, however, argued that Trump had extremely strong relations with his Gulf partners. The official said Washington had maintained regular contact with its allies in the region since the conflict began.
The Gulf countries did not adopt a common position on the war. Some countries initially viewed a swift US victory over Iran as potentially beneficial to their own interests, but concerns grew as the war continued without producing a clear outcome.
Hormuz talks continue as security dependence persists
Despite the tensions, Gulf countries remain dependent on Washington for security, including military equipment, ammunition and intelligence support.
Iran and Oman have been holding talks for three months to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran ties the full restoration of security and commercial shipping to the United States ending its military activities.
