Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar have resolved to deny Israel access to their airspace for any military actions against Iran. This decision, communicated to the US, reflects concerns over potential Iranian retaliation targeting oil facilities. The Gulf states are lobbying for diplomatic efforts to prevent further Israeli attacks, fearing escalated conflict and adverse effects on oil markets.
Recent reports indicate that several Persian Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Qatar, have decided to prohibit Israel from using their airspace for any military actions against Iran. This decision has been officially communicated to the United States. According to a Reuters report, these countries have specifically stated that they will not permit Israeli missiles to traverse their airspace, aiming to prevent any potential attacks on regional oil installations, of which they are significant stakeholders. The apprehension among these Gulf states stems from the fear that Iran or allied militant groups could retaliate against their oil production facilities in response to an Israeli offensive. This development is further compounded by escalating tensions, as the Israeli government has expressed potential intentions to launch strikes against Iran, while Iranian authorities have warned of severe retaliatory measures should such an attack occur. Illustratively, on October 1, Iran executed a large-scale missile assault on Israel, known as Operation True Promise 2, targeting Israel’s military and intelligence assets, allegedly claiming a high success rate of approximately 90 percent. Ali Shihabi, a prominent analyst aligned with the Saudi royal court, remarked, “The Iranians have stated: ‘If the Persian Gulf states open up their airspace to Israel, that would be an act of war.'” This underscores the heightened level of concern regarding military actions and their implications within the region. Moreover, these Persian Gulf nations are actively engaging with the United States to dissuade Israel from targeting Iranian oil infrastructure, given that an escalation in conflict could lead to significant global oil price increases and supply disruptions, particularly in the context of the upcoming US presidential elections. One source articulated this concern, noting that there is a looming risk of a missile conflict if any attacks are orchestrated against Iran. Saudi Arabia, recognized as a leading oil exporter, alongside its neighboring oil-producing allies—the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain—has exhibited a significant interest in ensuring regional stability, thereby emphasizing the urgency of de-escalating tensions with Iran.
The geopolitical landscape in the Middle East has been significantly influenced by tensions involving Iran and Israel, with multiple Gulf states caught in the crossfire. The Iranian regime’s assertive military strategy and recent threats against Israel have escalated fears among neighboring countries regarding their national security and economic stability, particularly concerning critical infrastructures like oil facilities. The regional powers are acutely aware that any military engagement could have far-reaching implications not only for their economies but for global oil markets. This concern is amplified in an election year in the United States, potentially impacting broader political dynamics.
In summary, the strategic decision by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar to restrict Israel’s use of their airspace underscores their commitment to preventing military aggression against Iran. The prevailing fears of Iranian retaliation, particularly towards oil facilities in these Gulf states, have led to heightened diplomatic efforts to avert conflict. With the backdrop of pressing regional tensions and potential threats to global oil supplies, these developments warrant close observation as the situation evolves.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
