For decades, wealthy Gulf Arab states have prided themselves on being oases of stability in a turbulent region, building modern capitals with booming economies that attract millions of foreign workers. But their sense of security was shaken this year after two direct strikes on Gulf soil.
In June, Iran targeted a U.S. airbase in Qatar following American attacks on its nuclear facilities. This week, Israel struck Hamas’ political leadership in Doha, marking the first time both regional powers have launched direct strikes on a Gulf state. The attack has rattled Gulf leaders as the Gaza war, which began nearly two years ago, edges dangerously closer to their borders.
With limited military options available, Qatar has pledged a “collective” regional response to Israel’s actions. That response, Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said, is “under consultation and discussion” with Gulf partners, with a final decision expected at an Arab and Islamic summit in Doha this weekend.
The United Arab Emirates, which maintains the closest ties to Israel, reacted swiftly. Less than 24 hours after the strike, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in Doha with a large delegation, making Qatar the first stop on a Gulf tour that also included Bahrain and Oman. The UAE also summoned an Israeli diplomat to condemn the “blatant and cowardly” attack.
Analysts believe Gulf leaders will seek ways to demonstrate unity while avoiding direct escalation. Options may include diplomatic pressure, economic coordination, or moves within existing agreements.
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One possibility under discussion is the UAE scaling back its involvement in the Abraham Accords, the 2020 normalization deal with Israel that was championed by then-President Donald Trump. Signs of strain had already emerged before the Doha strike. Earlier this week, senior UAE official Lana Nusseibeh warned that any Israeli annexation of parts of the West Bank would be a “red line” and a betrayal of the accords’ spirit.
“The Gulf must act now, because if not, other capitals could be next,” said Bader Al-Saif, assistant professor at Kuwait University.
As leaders gather in Doha, the question remains whether the Gulf states can move beyond condemnation to coordinated action.