Squiz Today Squiz Shortcuts: What are the Gulf States?
Mar 12, 2026
Lizzie O'Shea, lawyer and chair of Digital Rights Watch who speaks on AI governance and online rights. The conversation walks through which countries make up the Gulf, their oil wealth and global energy role. It covers Iran's attacks on Gulf shipping, rising ties between some Gulf states, the US and Israel, and how the conflict is reshaping regional economics and security.
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Why Iran Has Struck Gulf Targets
- Iran has attacked Gulf states because those countries have diplomatic and security ties with the US and Israel.
- Iran claims it targeted US and Israeli military assets, but strikes have also hit civilian airports, ports, hotels and oil facilities.
UAE Has Suffered Heavy Civilian Damage
- The UAE has been the worst-hit Gulf state with civilian casualties and major infrastructure disruption.
- The UAE reports at least six deaths, ~120 injuries and says it shot down more than 1,700 Iranian missiles and drones disrupting Dubai airport and oil output.
US Military Bases Have Been Targeted
- Iranian strikes have hit US military facilities and allied bases across the Gulf, widening the conflict regionally.
- Examples include a missile at Al-Udaid airbase in Qatar (largest US facility) and attacks on Omani ports despite its mediation role.