Gulf allies privately make the case to Trump to keep fighting Iran
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Gulf allies of the U.S., led by Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are urging President Trump to intensify the war against Iran, believing Tehran has not been sufficiently weakened by the current bombing campaign.
- Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain want the military operation to continue until there are significant changes in Iranian leadership or behavior, with the UAE pushing for a possible ground invasion.
- Oman and Qatar favor a diplomatic solution, while Saudi Arabia demands that any settlement neutralize Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and end its support for proxy groups, ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open.
- Trump claims strong support from Gulf allies, praising their resistance against Iran, but has not called on them to join offensive operations, partly due to complications such as limited diplomatic ties with Israel and risks of friendly fire incidents.
- Iran has threatened attacks on Gulf infrastructure if the U.S. strikes its power plants, raising concerns about regional escalation and complicating Gulf states’ willingness to fully engage militarily.
