GCC at a Crossroads: War Risks, Economic Strains, and Iran

GCC states have largely avoided joining the Iran war despite being heavily targeted, weighing the risk of escalation against economic vulnerabilities, labor dependence, and regional security shifts. While the U.S. and Israel push for Gulf involvement, internal tensions, shifting security alignments, and the cost to oil-dependent economies are keeping Gulf rulers cautious, with possibilities of new security pacts or closer Israel ties still on the table.