Concerns grow over potential conflict escalation as Iran seeks regional unity amid rising tensions with Israel.
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — Tehran has firmly cautioned Gulf Arab nations that permitting the use of their airspace or military bases against Iran would be deemed “unacceptable,” with a senior Iranian official warning of a strong response if such actions occur. The warning comes as tensions mount following an Iranian missile attack and amid fears of possible Israeli retaliation.
“Iran made it clear that any action by a Gulf country against Tehran, whether through the use of airspace or military bases, will be regarded by Tehran as an action taken by the entire group, and Tehran will respond accordingly,” the official told Reuters.
The remarks were made as Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, travelled to Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations for discussions aimed at reinforcing diplomatic ties. These conversations follow last week’s informal discussions at an Asia conference in Qatar, where Gulf states sought to assure Iran of their neutrality in any potential conflict with Israel.
The official highlighted the need for “regional unity against Israel and the importance of securing stability.” He added, “Any assistance to Israel, such as allowing the use of a regional country’s airspace for actions against Iran, is unacceptable.”
The geopolitical dynamics of the region could shift dramatically if an Israeli attack triggers US military involvement, as several Gulf states, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, host US military facilities.
In a parallel development, Israeli media reported that covert talks are underway between the United States and Arab nations, including Iran, aimed at establishing a comprehensive ceasefire to calm tensions across multiple conflict fronts. The discussions reportedly exclude Israel, though senior Israeli officials have been informed of the initiative.
One Israeli official commented, “We are currently in a position of power; a ceasefire will be on our terms, including a [Hezbollah] withdrawal beyond the Litani [River] and the dismantling of all military Hezbollah sites near the border.”
As tensions escalate, US President Joe Biden is anticipated to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about potential plans regarding Iran. Meanwhile, the possibility of Israel targeting Iran’s oil sector has been a topic of discussion, as any attacks could significantly impact global oil prices, particularly ahead of the upcoming US presidential election.
While the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has sufficient spare capacity to counterbalance any loss of Iranian oil supply, Iran has previously warned that direct interventions by “Israel supporters” could lead to targeting their interests in the region.
Saudi Arabia, a key oil exporter and a rival to Iran, has maintained a cautious approach since a political rapprochement was established in 2023. However, the 2019 attack on Saudi Arabia’s Abqaiq refinery, which disrupted over 5% of global oil supply, remains a point of concern for Riyadh.
A Western diplomat in the Persian Gulf emphasised Iran’s stance during a recent meeting in Doha, stating, “Tehran has called for regional unity in the face of an Israeli attack and considers the neutrality of Gulf states a bare minimum.” The diplomat noted that Iran is closely monitoring how each Persian Gulf country responds in the event of an Israeli attack, particularly regarding the usage of US bases located within their borders.