After Iran’s salvo hit their skylines, will Gulf states enter the war?
Al Jazeera
March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
When Iranian missiles struck key Gulf cities like Doha, Dubai, and Manama, they not only caused significant damage but also forced Gulf states into an unwinnable situation. These nations now face a critical decision: either respond to the attacks and risk being perceived as allies of Israel or remain neutral while enduring repeated strikes. Analysts argue that this dilemma threatens their longstanding image as neutral peacekeepers in the Middle East.
The attacks were Iran's retaliation for a US-Israeli operation that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials, including military targets across Iran. This move came despite Gulf states' efforts to mediate between Iran and the United States through Oman. These nations had hoped to avoid conflict by fostering dialogue, but their attempts were ultimately unsuccessful.
The Gulf states now find themselves in a precarious position. Striking back could undermine their neutrality and regional influence, while staying passive risks eroding public trust and further destabilizing the region. Experts suggest that if they choose to act, it would likely be through a unified GCC force like the Peninsula Shield Force, rather than directly collaborating with US or Israeli forces.
This situation underscores the delicate balance Gulf states must maintain to protect their sovereignty and regional standing. Their response will have significant implications for Middle East stability, global oil markets, and the broader geopolitical landscape. The outcome of this crisis will determine whether Gulf nations can preserve their neutrality—or if they are drawn deeper into a volatile conflict with far-reaching consequences.
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on Al Jazeera on 3/2/2026