Araweelo News Network
Associated Online Agencies
Date: Monday, 9 March 2026
Reading Time: 2 minutes.
Hargeisa (ANN) – Gulf states are facing a complex and dangerous dilemma as the escalating confrontation between the United States, Israel, and Iran threatens the region’s critical energy and water infrastructure.
According to Dania Thafer, Executive Director of the Gulf International Forum, governments across the Persian Gulf region are struggling to maintain a delicate balance as tensions intensify.
Speaking in an interview with Al Jazeera, Thafer described the situation as a “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” scenario for Gulf countries.
She explained that many Gulf governments view both Israel and Iran as powerful actors whose confrontation could destabilize the entire region. As a result, they are attempting to avoid direct involvement while maintaining strategic relations with Washington.
“From the perspective of Gulf states, they see Israel and Iran almost like two bullies in the region,” Thafer said, noting that the priority for Gulf governments is to prevent the conflict from spreading further.
Rather than joining the war, Gulf states are focusing on strengthening their defensive capabilities and pursuing diplomatic de-escalation efforts. However, Thafer warned that the region remains highly vulnerable, particularly because critical infrastructure could become targets if the conflict escalates further.
Oil facilities and desalination plants—vital for both energy exports and drinking water supplies—are considered among the most sensitive installations in the Gulf. Any major attack on these facilities could have devastating consequences not only for the region but also for global energy markets.
Thafer also raised concerns about misinformation circulating during the conflict, including allegations that some US military strikes on Iran may have been launched from bases located in Gulf countries. Such claims, she warned, could place additional political and security pressure on Gulf governments.
“If Iran believes attacks are being launched from Gulf territory, or if key infrastructure is targeted, Gulf states could be forced into a conflict they are desperately trying to avoid,” she said.
Regional analysts say the situation reflects the broader geopolitical risks facing Gulf nations, which host US military facilities while also maintaining economic and diplomatic ties across the region.
As the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran continues to intensify, Gulf countries remain focused on preventing escalation that could transform the confrontation into a wider regional war.
Araweelo News Network will continue monitoring developments across the Middle East as diplomatic and military tensions evolve.
By Arraale M Jama Freelance Journalist and Human Rights
activist.
Araweelo News Network
Associated Online Agencies