image sourced from original article at The Gulf states had sought to maintain a publicly neutral stance before the outbreak of war, encouraging an arrangement with Iran to prevent a wider conflict that could destabilize the region. Their priority was to shield their economies and infrastructure from the fallout of escalating tensions.
However, once hostilities began, the Gulf countries found themselves directly affected. Iranian strikes on their territory have increasingly drawn them into the confrontation, undermining their efforts to remain on the sidelines.
As attacks intensify, the image of neutrality that these states carefully cultivated is beginning to erode. Their next steps could significantly influence the direction of the conflict and reshape the broader regional balance.
