Gulf states take the fight to Iran as missiles target oil, gas and trade
South China Morning Post
by Tom HussainMarch 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Gulf states are shifting their stance as Iran's retaliatory missile and drone strikes hit critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. These attacks, launched in response to US and Israeli strikes on Iran, have targeted oil refineries, the world’s largest LNG plant in Qatar, and key trade hubs in the UAE. The Gulf nations, which had previously hoped to remain neutral in the escalating conflict, are now questioning their defensive strategies amid the relentless barrage of Iranian missiles.
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states—Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman—had sought to mediate a peaceful resolution, warning of the potential for regional instability. However, Iran's aggressive campaign has forced these nations to reevaluate their approach. The question now is whether a purely defensive posture can sustain under continuous attack, with Gulf leaders considering more proactive measures.
The situation has already begun to unravel, with satellite images showing smoke plumes over Dubai following missile strikes. This shift from diplomacy to potential confrontation signals a turning point in the region's dynamics. The GCC’s trust in Washington has eroded as US-Iran tensions escalate, and the economic and security implications for the world are significant. With Gulf states at the epicenter of global oil production and trade, any further escalation could send shockwaves through international markets.
This development matters because it highlights the fragile balance of power in the Middle East and the potential for widespread destabilization. As Gulf nations consider moving beyond defense to a more assertive strategy, the region—and the world—hangs in the balance. The outcome of this unfolding drama will have far-reaching consequences for global energy supplies, geopolitical stability, and US-Iran relations.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 3/3/2026