Can Gulf countries defend themselves without US support amid Iranian threats?
Several Gulf countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the UAE and Jordan, have recently activated air defense systems. The move came after Iran launched new attacks that it said were aimed at US military facilities.
The latest escalation followed renewed US strikes on Iranian targets along the country’s southern coast. Key areas reportedly targeted included Qeshm Island and locations near Bandar Abbas, Sirik and Jask.
The exchange of attacks has raised concerns because it comes shortly after a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran. Both sides now accuse each other of violating the agreement, especially over tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has reportedly targeted commercial shipping routes and US-linked military positions. In response, the United States says it has attacked Iranian military sites connected to threats against maritime security.
The recent developments have exposed a difficult reality for Gulf countries. The US military presence helps protect them, but it also makes them potential targets during regional conflicts.
Governments across the Gulf have strongly condemned the attacks. They have warned that continued escalation could threaten regional stability and public safety.
Iran claims it is targeting American military assets rather than Gulf nations themselves. However, missiles and drones entering Gulf airspace have created risks for civilians and damaged confidence in regional security.
Qatar reported that three people, including a child, were injured by falling debris during a missile interception. Such incidents have increased public concern about the possibility of wider conflict.
Also read: Iran targets US assets in Bahrain and Jordan as Hormuz tensions deepen
The United States maintains military facilities across many countries in the Middle East. Around 50,000 American troops are believed to be stationed throughout the region.
Security experts say Gulf countries face a difficult balance. They rely on US protection while also facing threats linked to America’s military presence.
Over the years, Gulf nations have invested heavily in advanced air defense systems. These include Patriot, THAAD, NASAMS and other technologies designed to intercept missiles and drones.
Saudi Arabia operates one of the region’s largest air defense networks. The UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman have also strengthened their defensive capabilities with modern systems.
Experts say these defenses have successfully intercepted many incoming threats. However, no defense shield is perfect and some attacks can still penetrate protective layers.
Experts argue that one of the biggest challenges is cost. Iran’s relatively inexpensive drones can force defenders to use interceptor missiles worth millions of dollars.
This creates financial and logistical pressure over time. A prolonged conflict could reduce missile stocks and place additional strain on military resources.
Security specialists believe the Gulf states are now increasing cooperation with one another. Greater intelligence sharing and coordinated defense planning are becoming important priorities.
Regional governments are also exploring new defense partnerships beyond the United States. Cooperation with countries such as Pakistan, South Korea, Ukraine and European nations is attracting growing attention.
Despite these efforts, experts say Gulf countries still depend heavily on Washington for overall security. Building a fully independent regional defense structure could take many years.
The current crisis is therefore testing both military readiness and political partnerships. It is also raising important questions about the future security strategy of the Gulf region.
Gulf countries have strong air defense systems and have stopped many missile and drone attacks. However, a long conflict could create financial and military pressure because defending against repeated attacks is expensive.
The region is becoming more focused on cooperation and shared security. Even so, most experts believe Gulf countries still need US support to maintain the highest level of protection.
