Gulf States Stand Firm: Blocking Israeli Airspace Amid Rising Tensions with Iran

Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar, are lobbying Washington to prevent an Israeli attack on Iran's oil sites, fearing retaliation from Tehran targeting their own oil facilities. They refuse to allow Israeli planes to use their airspace, promoting diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions.

Gulf states are intensifying diplomatic efforts to prevent an escalation in the Middle East, as tensions rise over the potential for an Israeli attack on Iran's oil infrastructure. Officials from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar have communicated to the White House their refusal to permit Israeli use of their airspace for assaults, aiming to avoid becoming targets themselves should Iran retaliate.

The situation has heightened following an Iranian missile attack, which Israel has promised to answer forcefully, sparking concerns of a broader war. Meanwhile, diplomatic activities within the Gulf and conversations with U.S. counterparts stress a focus on preventing further conflict, while safeguarding key oil infrastructure remains paramount for the region's economic stability.

The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, led by Saudi Arabia, holds sufficient spare capacity to cover any loss from Iranian facilities. However, regional petroleum assets share vulnerability. The disruption of oil flows poses a significant risk to global markets, with geopolitical analysts warning of far-reaching economic consequences, especially impacting Chinese imports and the upcoming U.S. elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)