Gulf states accelerate diversification of security partnerships after US‑Iran war

Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, which were hit by Iranian missile and drone attacks on military bases, airports, energy facilities and hotels during the US‑Israel war on Iran, are seeking to broaden their security alliances. Analysts note that Saudi Arabia has already signed a defence pact with Pakistan and that a proposed “quad” grouping could involve Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt and Pakistan, alongside deeper ties with China and European states. Anna Jacobs Khalaf told Al Jazeera that the aim is “regional balance of power and pushing back on both Iran and Israel,” not replacing the United States. Annelle Sheline added that Gulf states “will want to maintain the security relationship with the United States, but will no longer want to be in a position where it is relying on the United States.”

In parallel, the United States has conducted high‑level diplomatic outreach. CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper met senior military leaders from 11 regional partners in Bahrain, reaffirming Washington’s “shoulder‑to‑shoulder” commitment to Gulf security. U.S. officials, including Acting National Security Adviser Marco Rubio, stressed full alignment with Gulf allies despite lingering concerns over unresolved issues such as Iran’s missile programme and support for non‑state actors.