Gulf States press Trump to escalate strikes on Iran, warning regime remains a threat

Several key U.S. allies in the Gulf are urging President Donald Trump to sustain and intensify military operations against Iran, arguing that the ongoing U.S.-led campaign has not yet sufficiently degraded Tehran’s military capabilities or neutralized its regional influence.
Officials from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain have conveyed in private discussions that the conflict should continue until Iran’s leadership faces significant changes or its behavior shifts dramatically, according to multiple reports citing U.S., Gulf, and Israeli sources.1afa95
The push comes after a month of U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, which followed earlier escalations in the region. Gulf leaders reportedly view the current campaign as a rare strategic opportunity to reshape the Middle East by curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions, missile program, and support for proxy groups.
While initial reactions from some Gulf capitals included concerns over lack of prior consultation and fears of Iranian retaliation, sentiment has shifted as Tehran launched missile and drone attacks on Gulf infrastructure, including energy facilities, airports, and urban areas in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. These strikes have caused casualties and heightened alarm over Iran’s ability to threaten critical oil and gas infrastructure.9b575b
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been particularly vocal in private, framing the situation as a “historic opportunity” to address long-standing threats, sources told media outlets.
Not all Gulf voices align on escalation. Oman and Qatar have advocated for diplomacy and de-escalation, with Omani officials emphasizing available “off-ramps” and criticizing aspects of U.S. policy. Qatar has called for an immediate end to hostilities amid economic disruptions and direct impacts from Iranian retaliation.2eda3b
A central concern driving the harder line from several states is control of the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway through which about one-fifth of global oil passes. Iranian threats to disrupt shipping have prompted regional leaders to explore alternatives for securing energy routes and reducing vulnerability to Tehran’s leverage.
President Trump has issued strong warnings to Iran, including threats to target its energy infrastructure and other assets if the Strait is not reopened promptly or if a ceasefire deal is not reached soon. He has described progress in parallel talks while maintaining pressure through continued strikes.
The Gulf’s divided stance underscores the complexity of the conflict: while some states see sustained action as essential for long-term security, others worry about broader instability, potential refugee flows, or a power vacuum that could empower more radical elements.
As the war enters a critical phase—with Iranian attacks on Gulf targets continuing and U.S. forces reinforcing positions in the region—diplomats say the coming weeks could determine whether military pressure leads to a decisive shift in Iran’s posture or risks a wider regional conflagration.
This story is based on reports from multiple outlets including Ynet, CNN, The Jerusalem Post, and Reuters, reflecting anonymous official briefings amid ongoing sensitivities.