Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman Warn US Action Against Iran Could Destabilise Region

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Doha: Arab Gulf states are urging the United States to avoid military action against Iran, warning that such a move could trigger widespread economic and political instability across the region, according to media reports.

Saudi Arabia, alongside Oman and Qatar, has been privately pressing Washington to exercise restraint following indications from the White House that it may consider military options against Tehran, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Gulf officials cautioned that any attempt to overthrow Iran’s government could severely disrupt global energy markets, particularly oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime corridor through which roughly 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply passes.

Officials also expressed concerns over potential retaliation, domestic backlash, and economic fallout should US forces strike Iran. Saudi authorities have reportedly conveyed to Tehran that the Kingdom would not take part in any conflict and would not allow its airspace to be used for military operations, seeking to distance itself from direct confrontation.

A White House official said President Donald Trump considers a range of viewpoints before making decisions, noting that “the president listens to a host of opinions on any given issue, but ultimately makes the decision he feels is best.”

While no final decision has been announced, Trump on Tuesday urged Iranian protesters to continue demonstrating, writing on social media that “help is on its way.”

Gulf leaders are also wary of the uncertainty surrounding a potential post-Khamenei Iran, fearing that power could shift to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) or that a collapse could plunge the country, and the wider region, into prolonged instability.

“They have no love for the Iranian regime,” said former US Ambassador Michael Ratney, “but they also have a great aversion to instability.”

Saudi Arabia, which is focused on advancing its Vision 2030 economic diversification agenda, views regional stability as essential. Analysts say Gulf states would prefer internal reforms in Iran rather than a sudden collapse of the current government.

Iran has experienced widespread protests since late December, beginning at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar amid a sharp fall in the national currency and worsening economic conditions. Demonstrations later spread to several other cities. Iranian officials have accused the United States and Israel of supporting unrest, which they have described as riots and terrorism.