In a poised response to the recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear targets, Gulf Arab countries have articulated concerns while carefully sidestepping outright condemnation of their key ally, the United States.
Gulf States Express Concerns Over U.S. Strikes on Iran Nuclear Sites
Gulf States Express Concerns Over U.S. Strikes on Iran Nuclear Sites
Gulf Arab nations share apprehensions following U.S. military action against Iranian facilities but refrain from direct condemnation.
June 22, 2025
In light of the recent U.S. military attacks on nuclear facilities in Iran, Gulf Arab states have publicly voiced their apprehension regarding the escalation of tensions, albeit without chastising the U.S., their principal ally.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry expressed a desire for de-escalation, stating that they are monitoring developments with "deep concern." In a carefully crafted message, Qatar's Foreign Ministry refrained from naming the U.S., expressing regret over the worsening situation but hoping all involved parties would act with "wisdom" and restraint—a noticeable shift from their previous day's unambiguous condemnation of Israeli strikes.
Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates echoed these sentiments, with Kuwait expressing "deep concern" and the UAE communicating "profound concern" regarding the bombings, while conspicuously omitting any mention of American involvement.
The presence of U.S. military bases in these oil-rich nations raises fears about potential Iranian retaliation, as the bases and vital energy infrastructure become potential targets. In a menacing statement, the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps of Iran highlighted the American bases as vulnerabilities, framing them as weak points rather than sources of strength.
As the complex geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the Gulf nations seem to be walking a delicate tightrope, balancing their strategic alliances with the need to address security concerns in the region.
In light of the recent U.S. military attacks on nuclear facilities in Iran, Gulf Arab states have publicly voiced their apprehension regarding the escalation of tensions, albeit without chastising the U.S., their principal ally.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry expressed a desire for de-escalation, stating that they are monitoring developments with "deep concern." In a carefully crafted message, Qatar's Foreign Ministry refrained from naming the U.S., expressing regret over the worsening situation but hoping all involved parties would act with "wisdom" and restraint—a noticeable shift from their previous day's unambiguous condemnation of Israeli strikes.
Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates echoed these sentiments, with Kuwait expressing "deep concern" and the UAE communicating "profound concern" regarding the bombings, while conspicuously omitting any mention of American involvement.
The presence of U.S. military bases in these oil-rich nations raises fears about potential Iranian retaliation, as the bases and vital energy infrastructure become potential targets. In a menacing statement, the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps of Iran highlighted the American bases as vulnerabilities, framing them as weak points rather than sources of strength.
As the complex geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the Gulf nations seem to be walking a delicate tightrope, balancing their strategic alliances with the need to address security concerns in the region.
