In response to attacks by the United States and Israel, Iran has continued targeting US military bases and infrastructure in the Gulf region. However, Gulf countries have refrained from direct attacks on Iran, focusing instead on strengthening their defense systems, successfully intercepting many missiles mid-air. Experts say these countries have avoided direct confrontation with Iran due to the potential risk of regional war, economic stability concerns, diplomatic restraint, and the sensitive situation in the Strait of Hormuz. (March 24, Kathmandu)
Following attacks by the US and Israel on Iran, Iran has targeted US military bases located in Gulf countries. The targets include strategic locations in Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Reports indicate damage to airports, energy infrastructure, hotels, and residential areas in these nations. Recently, after Israel attacked Iran’s South Pars—the world’s largest natural gas field—Iran retaliated by striking Qatar’s Ras Laffan energy facility, causing significant damage.
There are several key strategic and political reasons behind the Gulf countries’ decision to avoid direct attacks on Iran. These include the desire to maintain regional peace and prevent war, safeguard economic development plans, exercise diplomatic restraint and mediation efforts, and address the sensitivity of the Strait of Hormuz. Although the UAE’s airports have reportedly been targeted by Iran, many Gulf nations prefer to enhance their defensive capabilities rather than launch armed offensives against Iran.
Currently, 22 countries including the UAE have issued a joint statement strongly condemning attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. According to Rob Geist Pinfold, a professor of International Security at King’s College London, while the Gulf countries condemn Iran’s actions as “terrorist activities,” their primary motivation for restraint is to protect their national security, economic future, and prevent territorial devastation.
