Iran warns Gulf neighbours of retaliation if they aid Israeli strikes

Iran has issued a stern warning to its Arab neighbours and US allies in the Gulf, threatening severe retaliation if their territories or airspace are used to support any Israeli attacks on Iran, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. The warning, delivered through secret diplomatic channels, targets key Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, and Qatar, all of which host US military forces.

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This development follows heightened tensions after Israel threatened retaliatory strikes on Iran, in response to an earlier Iranian ballistic missile attack. Israeli officials have considered targeting Iran's nuclear and oil infrastructure, which they see as vital to reducing Tehran's military capabilities. In turn, Iran has vowed to strike back, threatening not only Israeli targets but also Arab states that assist in any attacks.

According to the WSJ, Gulf nations have expressed reluctance to the Biden administration about being drawn into a wider conflict, citing concerns about their oil facilities, which could be prime targets. These oil-rich states, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, fear that their critical infrastructure may come under attack, potentially destabilizing global energy markets.

A conflict in the region, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil shipping route, could severely disrupt global oil supplies, driving up energy prices and affecting economies worldwide. Gulf leaders have reportedly pledged to avoid involvement in military strikes against Iran to protect their assets and maintain stability.