Asia

Home page

Asia

Gulf states ‘urge US to continue military pressure on Iran’

31 March 2026 07:00 (UTC +04:00)

Several Gulf countries, led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, are reportedly encouraging the United States to maintain military operations against Iran, according to a report by Associated Press.

The report, citing unnamed officials from the United States, Israel and Gulf states, suggests that a number of regional actors support continued military pressure until significant changes occur within Iran’s leadership.

According to the sources, representatives from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Bahrain have conveyed – in private discussions – their preference for sustained US–Israel military operations targeting Iran.

The discussions are said to have taken place behind closed doors, reflecting the sensitivity of the issue in a region already facing heightened tensions and security concerns.

While none of the governments named have publicly confirmed the claims, the report highlights the extent of geopolitical divisions in the Gulf as the conflict involving Iran continues to evolve.

Analysts say such positions, if confirmed, could further complicate diplomatic efforts and increase the risk of broader regional escalation, particularly given the strategic importance of energy routes and security alliances in the Middle East.