Gulf leaders meet to strategize against Iran

Gulf officials stated that leaders from countries in the region convened in Saudi Arabia to discuss ways to counter threats from Iranian missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman chaired a consultative meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in Jeddah on 28/4. This marked the first direct meeting of regional leaders since the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran erupted in late February.

The conference discussed issues related to regional and international developments, as well as coordination in efforts concerning them, the state news agency Saudi Press Agency reported.

An unnamed Gulf official told Reuters that the meeting "aimed to develop a response strategy against Iranian missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attacks." AFP quoted a source saying that regional leaders "discussed the current political and security situation in the Gulf."

Firefighters extinguish a blaze after an Iranian UAV struck a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport, UAE on 16/3. *Photo: AP*

The Emir of Qatar, the King of Bahrain, the Crown Prince of Kuwait, and the Foreign Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) attended the conference. It was unclear who represented Oman. The UAE had criticized the GCC for "not responding adequately to the conflict."

"GCC countries have provided mutual logistical support. However, the group's political and military standing is at a historical low," said Anwar Gargash, senior advisor to the UAE President, on 27/4. "I had anticipated such a weak stance from the Arab League, but I did not expect, and was surprised, that the GCC was also in this position."

After the conflict erupted, Iran launched numerous missiles and UAVs at Israel and several Gulf nations where the US maintains bases, in retaliation. Besides military bases, these attacks damaged energy infrastructure in 6 GCC member states, offices of US-affiliated companies, and other civilian facilities.

Iran ceased its attacks after reaching a ceasefire agreement with the US on 8/4. However, Gulf nations remain concerned about the risk of continued conflict, as negotiations between the US and Iran have yet to yield results. Iran has also repeatedly warned of potential attacks on Gulf countries if hostilities resume.