The situation in the Middle East has grown more tense in the past weeks following Iran’s intensive rocket attacks on Israel to avenge the assassinations of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders in Lebanon and Iran and Israel’s retaliatory strikes on Iranian territory.

Fears of the Gulf monarchs

According to sources close to government circles in those countries, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and other Gulf states are worries that their own oil infrastructure may come under fire from Tehran’s allies in case of further escalation of the conflict. Part of those forces are located in Yemen, part in Iraq, i.e. to the north and south of the Persian Gulf. Within the framework of trying not to be caught in the crossfire, Gulf states – including the UAE and Bahrain – that have diplomatic relations with Israel since the end of 2020, are saying that they will not allow Israeli fighter jets cross their airspace during any attacks on Iran, and of this they have notified Washington. But to whom and when have the US listened when acting in the interests of the protection of the strategic partner Israel? It seems the answer is evident.

It is unclear to which degree Benjamin Netanyahu, who pays little attention to international calls and does not abide by any international laws or rules, will agree to a non-escalatory reaction vis-à-vis Iran. Netanyahu knows perfectly well that US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who is running for president in the November elections, are clearly demanding a balanced........

© New Eastern Outlook