Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Iran has issued veiled threats to target oil-rich Arab Gulf states and other American allies if they facilitate an attack on Iran, according to a Wall Street Journal report.
The threats, conveyed through secret diplomatic channels, have raised concerns among regional powers and the United States.
Following Iran’s recent missile barrage against Israel, Israel has vowed a severe reprisal. While some Israeli officials and commentators advocate for strikes on Tehran’s nuclear facilities or oil infrastructure, Iran has warned of devastating retaliation against both Israel and any Arab state that assists in such an attack.
The Arab officials who disclosed the Iranian threats identified Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar as potential targets. These countries, which host U.S. troops, have informed the Biden administration that they do not want their military infrastructure or airspace to be used for offensive operations against Iran.
The escalating conflict is straining the alignment of Arab states and Israel, both of which oppose Iran’s military posture in the region. The United States, as the backbone of this bloc, aims to create a Middle East NATO aligned against Iran. However, Arab states, including Jordan, have expressed reluctance to directly support an Israeli strike on Iran.
U.S. defense officials acknowledged that some regional partners have conveyed their concerns about the use of their territories or airspace for Israeli military operations. While the Arab countries have allowed the U.S. to conduct self-defense operations, they have sought to limit the scope of any offensive actions.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has further complicated the situation. Arab countries have repeatedly imposed and removed restrictions on American operations, reflecting the evolving dynamics of the regional power struggle.
As Israel prepares for a military retaliation against Iran, the United States is working to prevent the conflict from escalating further. While the U.S. supports Israel’s right to self-defense, it is urging a limited response to avoid wider regional instability.
The threats from Iran underscore the risks for the United States and its allies in the region. The escalating tensions could have significant implications for energy markets, regional security, and the broader geopolitical landscape.