Gulf states resist US pressure to join military action against Iran

Gulf Arab states are pushing back against pressure from the Trump administration to join a more confrontational military stance against Iran. Despite U.S. calls for a united front, leaders in the region are expressing public warnings and private fears about the risks of miscalculation and the economic costs of escalation, which contributed to a recent pause in tensions.

Analysts describe Gulf states as being stuck in an 'unprecedented' situation, with their economies on the line. They are urging the U.S. to find a way to neutralize the threat from Iran for good, but are resisting being drawn into a direct conflict, preferring that the U.S. handle the situation independently.