Foreign Policy Live Will the Gulf States Join the War?
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Mar 5, 2026 
Mina Al-Oraibi, editor-in-chief of The National with deep on-the-ground Gulf reporting. She describes public resilience, surprise strikes on Gulf states, and rapid defensive adaptations. She discusses diplomatic pushback, shifting alliances, and whether Gulf capitals will prioritize protection over ideology as regional tensions and economic risks rise.
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Iran Prioritizes Gulf Targets To Pressure The US
- Iran has targeted Gulf states more than Israel to pressure the United States by striking hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha.
- Mina Al-Oraibi notes 50% of Iran's projectiles were aimed at the UAE, surprising regional expectations of restraint.
UAE Public Mood Shifted From Shock To Resilience
- On the ground in the UAE, people moved from initial shock to resilience as officials communicated intercept counts and protections.
- Mina Al-Oraibi describes quick government updates and high interception rates reassuring residents and preventing panic.
Gulf States Still Rely On The U.S. Security Umbrella
- GCC states lack viable military alternatives to the U.S., so Iranian strikes aimed to drive wedges but largely backfired.
- Firas Maksad says China and Russia can't replace U.S. defense, so Gulf partners are closing ranks with Washington.