Gulf States Push for More Than a Ceasefire with Iran

The Gulf countries have told the United States that stopping fighting is not enough. They want a deal that keeps Iran from using missiles, drones and other weapons against their energy sites and shipping lanes. The Gulf leaders also want guarantees that the Strait of Hormuz, which carries a fifth of global oil and gas, will never again be used as a weapon. Because Iran has fired on their borders during the U. S. –Israel conflict, Gulf officials say they have no diplomatic escape. They want a plan that locks in real limits on Iranian attacks and ties Iran’s future into a new regional order. The Gulf wants to be part of that order, not left out. The United States has been pressing Iran to reopen the strait. President Trump extended the deadline until early April and said talks were going well. Iran, however, says any U. S. proposal is unfair and wants the U. S. to pull out of Gulf bases.The Gulf states are divided on how hard to push. Qatar, Oman and Kuwait want a quick end because of economic pain. The UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are ready to take more risk but will not accept a post‑war Iran that can still block the strait. They fear another crisis if Iran keeps its weapons. Saudi Arabia’s research centre says Gulf security must be guaranteed. The Gulf Cooperation Council, which includes all the member states, has spoken out against any settlement that leaves them vulnerable. They point to thousands of missile and drone attacks on their energy plants. Some Gulf allies warn the U. S. against moving troops to Iran’s Kharg Island, a key oil export hub. They fear such action would spark Iranian retaliation on Gulf infrastructure. Instead they ask the U. S. to keep cutting Iran’s missile capabilities, which is seen as the main threat. The Gulf leaders’ message to Washington is clear: any agreement must protect their energy, civilians and shipping. They want a lasting peace that stops Iran from threatening the region again.