As tensions rise with the U.S. attack on Iranian nuclear facilities, Gulf Arab countries are expressing concern but refraining from direct condemnation of their key ally, the United States.
Gulf Nations Express Alarm Over U.S. Strike on Iran Nuclear Sites
Gulf Nations Express Alarm Over U.S. Strike on Iran Nuclear Sites
Concerns arise among Gulf Arab countries regarding U.S. military intervention while emphasizing their alliance.
In the midst of escalating geopolitical tensions, Gulf Arab nations that host American military bases released statements on June 22, 2025, voicing apprehension regarding a recent U.S. attack on Iranian nuclear facilities. While the nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), conveyed their dismay, they notably stopped short of explicitly condemning the United States.
Saudi Arabia's Foreign Ministry urged for restraint and de-escalation, expressing "deep concern" over the situation. Qatar's Foreign Ministry released a delicate statement without naming the U.S., emphasizing regret over the "deterioration of the situation" and encouraging a response filled with "wisdom."
This statement by Qatar starkly contrasted with its firm condemnation of Israel's actions against Iran on the previous day. Kuwait and the UAE mirrored this trend, articulating their concerns over the attacks while avoiding direct reference to the U.S. involvement.
The Gulf nations are acutely aware of the potential repercussions the U.S. military presence in their territories could have if Iran decides to retaliate. These countries host thousands of U.S. troops and contain critical oil infrastructure vital to the global economy, increasing vulnerability to Iranian responses. In a statement following the U.S. attacks, the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps of Iran cautioned that American bases were a weakness and should not be underestimated.
As the situation continues to unfold, the geopolitical ramifications remain a critical concern for the region, balancing their strategic alliances with the risks of retaliation from Iran.
Saudi Arabia's Foreign Ministry urged for restraint and de-escalation, expressing "deep concern" over the situation. Qatar's Foreign Ministry released a delicate statement without naming the U.S., emphasizing regret over the "deterioration of the situation" and encouraging a response filled with "wisdom."
This statement by Qatar starkly contrasted with its firm condemnation of Israel's actions against Iran on the previous day. Kuwait and the UAE mirrored this trend, articulating their concerns over the attacks while avoiding direct reference to the U.S. involvement.
The Gulf nations are acutely aware of the potential repercussions the U.S. military presence in their territories could have if Iran decides to retaliate. These countries host thousands of U.S. troops and contain critical oil infrastructure vital to the global economy, increasing vulnerability to Iranian responses. In a statement following the U.S. attacks, the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps of Iran cautioned that American bases were a weakness and should not be underestimated.
As the situation continues to unfold, the geopolitical ramifications remain a critical concern for the region, balancing their strategic alliances with the risks of retaliation from Iran.
