ConflictsMiddle East
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ConflictsMiddle Easthttps://p.dw.com/p/5GzM2
The Gulf states are facing mounting pressure as tensions between the United States and Iran spill across the region, with several countries reporting attacks linked to Tehran. While Gulf monarchies have largely avoided direct involvement in the conflict, recent strikes and growing security concerns around the Strait of Hormuz are forcing them to reconsider their position.
In recent days, Kuwait said border posts and an offshore oil platform were attacked, while Qatar reported injuries from shrapnel after intercepting a missile. Iran has claimed responsibility for strikes on both countries, saying it was targeting US military facilities in retaliation for American attacks.
According to Middle East analyst Megan Sutcliffe of the London-based intelligence firm Sibylline, Qatar’s decision to suspend non-commercial maritime activities signals a shift.
“This is a move from Qatar that does show more active engagement with the conflict when it comes to Iran,” Sutcliffe told DW.
She noted that Qatar had previously resumed maritime activity with Iran after receiving assurances from Tehran that it would not target the country if regional tensions escalated again. The latest attacks, she said, suggest those guarantees can no longer be trusted. “
It’s very clear that Iran does not seek to hold to those promises and to refrain from attacking Qatar,” Sutcliffe said.
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