Gulf Nations Urge Decisive Blow Against Iran as Conflict Threatens Global Economy
Story: written by Zara March 18,2026
Several Gulf states, led by the United Arab Emirates, are calling for a decisive end to Iran’s ruling system as tensions escalate across the region, with leaders warning that anything short of a major weakening of Iran could leave neighbours exposed to future attacks.
The UAE has been heavily impacted by the conflict, enduring sustained missile and drone assaults since hostilities involving the United States and Israel intensified in late February. Authorities say a large share of the strikes targeted civilian infrastructure, including oil installations, airports, and commercial hubs, resulting in casualties and widespread disruption.
Despite the scale of the attacks, members of the Gulf Cooperation Council have largely avoided direct retaliation, focusing instead on defensive measures.
UAE industry minister Sultan Ahmed al-Jaber described the situation as an assault on stability rather than a conventional military confrontation, stressing that any lasting resolution must address Iran’s nuclear ambitions, missile programme, and influence through regional allies.
Prior diplomatic efforts reportedly stalled after Tehran declined to negotiate limits on its missile capabilities or its backing of armed groups across the Middle East, including factions in Yemen, Lebanon, and Iraq.
Iranian officials have insisted they are targeting strategic interests linked to the US, but Gulf countries say civilian areas have repeatedly been hit, fuelling anger across the region.
In Qatar, officials reported continued threats and strikes affecting non-military sites, while warning that casualties could have been far worse without advanced air defence systems.
Regional leaders argue that the only acceptable outcome is an Iran significantly weakened to the point where it can no longer pose a threat to its neighbours.
The conflict has also disrupted the critical Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global energy supply. The blockade has triggered fears of worldwide economic fallout, with rising oil prices and supply chain disruptions expected to impact economies far beyond the Middle East.
Al-Jaber warned that interference in the strategic waterway amounts to economic warfare on a global scale, cautioning that the ripple effects will drive inflation higher, slow economic growth, and increase the cost of living for households worldwide.
