Gulf States

Shipping firms seek clarifications before crossing Hormuz as tankers move towards Strait

A group of around 20 ships, including container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers, was seen moving in the Gulf towards the exit via the Strait of Hormuz, according to ship tracking data.

Hapag-Lloyd sign on a container ship at the Valparaiso port, Chile, January 11, 2024.
US President Trump meets with Russian President Putin in Alaska, August 15, 2025

US-Israel war with Iran reshapes global alliances, benefits Russia - opinion

Prior to Russia’s 2022 invasion, Ukraine hadn’t invested in drone technology, but now it is considered to be a master of drone warfare.

Ukraine downed Iranian drones in Middle East during Iran war, Zelensky claims

People gather after US President Donald Trump said that he had agreed to a two-week ceasefire with Iran, in Tehran, Iran, April 8, 2026.

Tehran’s greatest blunder - opinion


Pakistan sending troops to Saudi Arabia could shift tide in war against Iran - opinion

On one hand, Pakistan’s involvement could increase pressure on Iran. On the other hand, it brings Saudi Arabia closer to a country that has expressed hostile positions toward Israel.

Army soldiers sit in a truck, as Pakistan prepares to host the US and Iran for peace talks, in Islamabad, Pakistan, April 10, 2026.

IMF warns Strait of Hormuz might never be back to normal

The IMF warned that the situation at Hormuz could be similar to the one in Bab-al-Mandeb, where shipping lanes haven’t yet recovered ever since the first Houthi attack.

A map showing the Strait of Hormuz is seen in this illustration taken June 22, 2025.

Israel – hegemon or partner? The Middle East is divided- opinion

Israel’s military successes so far are already generating waves across the Middle East regarding its place on the “day after.” 

 IRANIAN PRESIDENT Ebrahim Raisi delivers a speech marking the 45th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution, in Tehran, in February 2024.

After the war: A more coordinated, but still divided, Gulf - opinion

Iranian strikes, targeting not only military assets but also civilian infrastructure, have underscored vulnerabilities across the Gulf.

 A view of Burj Khalifa, after an Iranian attack, following United States and Israel strikes on Iran, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, March 1, 2026

Kuwait arrests 24 for financing terrorist entities, report claims former lawmakers among detained

Kuwait announced the disruption of multiple Hezbollah cells since the Islamic regime began attacking Gulf countries.

A man walks along the pavement next to a large banner depicting the flag of Kuwait.

Gulf states on edge as US-Iran talks in Islamabad end without deal - analysis

The Gulf is likely feeling that some of its concerns are being addressed and that many countries want to see the talks continue.

A Pakistani official stands during the arrival of the US Vice President JD Vance for talks with Iranian officials in Islamabad, Pakistan, Saturday, April 11, 2026.

Gulf States welcome ceasefire deal between US, Israel, and Iran, demand end to all attacks

Even amid ongoing Iranian missile and rocket attacks against Gulf facilities, the states from the region welcomed the ceasefire, demanding an end to hostilities.

 A view of Burj Khalifa, after an Iranian attack, following United States and Israel strikes on Iran, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, March 1, 2026

Kuwait, Bahrain push preemptive measures, close bridges as Iran threatens transport infrastructure

The main route linking Bahrain and Saudi Arabia was closed, while Kuwait ordered citizens nationwide to stay near protected areas from midnight till 6 a.m.

Smoke rises in the sky after blasts were heard in Manama, Bahrain, February 28, 2026.

Houthis hold Gulf states from joining US attacks with Bab el-Mandeb Strait trump card - interview

The Houthis' threat to close the Bab el-Mandeb Strait may explain why Gulf states have not responded militarily to Iran’s attacks. Yemen expert Inbal Nissim-Louvton weighs in.

Houthi soldiers stand guard on a missile carrier during an official military parade marking the ninth anniversary of the Houthi takeover of the capital, Sanaa, on September 21, 2023.

Iran attacked Saudi Arabia's Jubail petrochemical complex, IRGC says

The attack follows US President Donald Trump's ultimatum to Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz oil chokepoint by Tuesday night.

 Iran and Saudi Arabia flag together