Gulf allies frustrated with US over prolonged Iran war: Report

Growing frustration with Washington

Discontent with Washington is mounting among Gulf allies amid concerns that President Donald Trump has failed to secure a diplomatic end to the prolonged war with Iran, with one official telling The Washington Post that anger toward the US has reached its highest point since the conflict began in February. "Trump started this war, and we are paying the price," the official said on condition of anonymity, referring to the US and Israeli attack on Iran that began on February 28 and has since disrupted regional stability through continued missile and drone strikes by Tehran and its proxies. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain have grown increasingly critical of the administration as the conflict drags on without clear resolution, according to the newspaper.

A Western diplomat in the region cautioned that the developments did not amount to a significant shift in sentiment, noting that American forces were not "enthusiastically" welcomed even before the war began. "It was more something that was a necessary evil," the diplomat said. "Now, the necessity of it is being put in question."

White House rejects criticism

The unease comes as Trump has repeatedly threatened further action against Iran before pulling back from those threats, citing progress in diplomatic talks, while Washington and Tehran have yet to reach a final agreement to end the conflict. A White House official rejected the assessment, saying Trump "has extraordinary relationships with all of our Gulf partners" and that Washington has remained in regular contact with its regional allies since the conflict began.

Regional security dynamics

Gulf states have taken differing positions on the conflict, with some initially viewing the prospect of a quick US victory over Iran as potentially beneficial, though concerns grew as the war continued without a clear resolution. Despite growing strains, Gulf states remain dependent on Washington for security support, including military equipment, ammunition and intelligence. Iran and Oman have been negotiating safe shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz for the past three months, with Tehran saying the full restoration of security and normal commercial shipping depends on an end to US military actions.