The Inside Story Podcast Why does the US have a large military presence in the Gulf?
Jan 15, 2026
Rashid Al-Mohannadi, Vice President at the Center for International Policy Research, discusses how hosting U.S. bases boosts Qatar's security amid regional threats. Andreas Krieg from King's College London analyzes the evolving U.S. military role aimed at containing Iran, while Kenneth Katzman from The Soufan Center emphasizes the balance of deterrence and U.S. interests. Tensions in the Gulf prompt a reassessment of military presence, with strategic signals from Gulf states trying to manage escalation while enhancing their defenses.
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Qatar's Base Proved Its Deterrent Value
- Qatar sees hosting US forces as a deterrent that enhanced its security during last June's Iranian strike.
- The relationship helped Qatar defend its base and reduce immediate threat impact.
US Presence Creates Shared Security Framework
- The US military presence in the Gulf has entangled regional states in a US-centric security framework.
- Gulf states now share security burdens and provide strategic depth Washington lacks.
Intertwined Interests, Greater Gulf Responsibility
- The US and Gulf interests are intertwined but US strategic reliance on the Gulf has decreased.
- Washington expects Gulf states to bear more of the security burden going forward.