Gulf states urge US to fully weaken Iran as Hormuz crisis intensifies - report

Gulf Arab states are urging the United States not to stop short in its campaign against Iran, warning that leaving Tehran with military capabilities intact would continue to threaten the region’s vital oil routes, according to sources cited by Reuters.

Three Gulf sources said that while regional countries did not initially push for war, many now want Washington to ensure Iran can no longer endanger the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which about 20 percent of global oil supplies pass. The shift follows the recent waves of Iranian strikes targeting infrastructure and cities across the Gulf.

“There is a wide feeling across the Gulf that Iran has crossed every red line with every Gulf country,” said Abdulaziz Sager, chairman of the Saudi-based Gulf Research Center. “At first we defended them and opposed the war. But once they began directing strikes at us, they became an enemy. There is no other way to classify them.”

Since the start of the war, Iran has launched widespread missile and drone attacks on airports, ports, oil facilities, and commercial hubs in Gulf states while also disrupting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The attacks have raised concerns that Tehran could continue to threaten the region’s economic lifeline if not significantly weakened.

At the same time, diplomats said Washington is pressing Gulf countries to take a more active role in the conflict. Several sources said US President Donald Trump is seeking visible regional backing to strengthen international legitimacy for the campaign and reinforce domestic support.

Despite growing pressure, Gulf states remain cautious about direct military involvement. The Gulf Cooperation Council has yet to form a unified response, holding only limited consultations so far. Countries in the bloc have expressed concern that unilateral action could expose them to further retaliation and trigger a broader regional conflict.

A senior UAE official said the country “does not seek to be drawn into conflicts or escalation” but affirmed its right to “take all necessary measures” to protect its security. Gulf leaders continue to weigh their options as the conflict enters its third week, balancing calls for stronger action against fears of a wider war.

"If the Americans pull out before the task is complete, we’ll be left to confront Iran on our own,” Sager said.