Gulf Citizens Warn Iran's Actions Threaten Regional Stability, Urge US Military Presence

Amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, residents from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Jordan have spoken exclusively to Israeli media about the growing dangers posed by Tehran's actions. Over the past eight nights, exchanges of fire have intensified, raising fears that Iran might target critical infrastructure in neighboring Gulf states, potentially harming civilians and destabilizing their economies.

Fatima Al-Kharbi, a Bahraini writer and activist, described the heightened anxiety in Bahrain following recent Iranian missile launches, emphasizing the risk to innocent lives and vital facilities. She stressed the importance of deterring Iranian aggression through continued American military efforts alongside diplomatic initiatives. Similarly, retired Saudi General Abdullah An'am Al-Qahtani condemned Iran's regional conduct as dangerously threatening the area's future and stability. He asserted that Iran aims to maintain revolutionary dominance even at the cost of widespread destruction but will not succeed in defeating Israel.

Jordanian journalist Mustafa Al-Zouati highlighted Jordan's cautious stance, explaining that the country cannot afford the political and economic fallout of taking a firm position against either Iran or the US. This has led Jordan to pursue a delicate balancing act both officially and publicly. Despite Israel not being directly involved in the current conflict, the interviewees expressed a desire for Israel to engage diplomatically and urged Washington to maintain its military presence to protect Gulf states.

General Al-Qahtani also called on Israel to resolve the Palestinian issue swiftly and for the US to support regional countries to prevent terrorism and remove excuses for Iranian aggression. He criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for allegedly not pursuing peace that would guarantee security and stability for all parties. The interviewees' candid remarks reflect growing regional concern over Iran's actions and the complex geopolitical dynamics affecting Gulf states amid the ongoing conflict.