Asharq Al Awsat
·Jul 2026
Gulf states step up coordination after Iran escalation
Gulf states intensified coordination following Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting several regional countries, prompting a series of high-level consultations, calls, and visits. Foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain condemned the assaults, stressed safeguarding navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and urged adherence to dialogue and diplomacy. Kuwait and Bahrain reported missile and drone interceptions and described the attacks as violations of international law. Regional leaders reiterated support for de-escalation efforts and the implementation of existing agreements to bolster regional stability.