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Trump's Gulf Allies Demand Iran Missile Cuts Before War Ends

Gulf Arab allies of the US, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are pushing for Iran's missile and drone programs to be severely degraded before the Iran war ends, viewing them as an urgent threat. They argue that a quick ceasefire without addressing these capabilities could leave them vulnerable to future attacks. The US aims to destroy Iran's offensive missiles, production sites, navy, and security infrastructure. Iran has retaliated by firing thousands of projectiles at neighboring Arab states, causing casualties and economic disruption, and demands regional concessions like control over the Strait of Hormuz. Gulf states insist any peace agreement must include guarantees against future Iranian aggression, with Qatar highlighting the need to protect its strategic interests. Despite public calls for de-escalation, private efforts focus on reshaping regional security to counter the IRGC, which is now seen as the primary enemy.

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Trump's Gulf Allies Demand Iran Missile Cuts Before War Ends

As the conflict with Iran persists, US-aligned Gulf Arab nations are escalating demands for the dismantling of Iran's missile and drone arsenals prior to any war conclusion, citing long-term security risks.

Gulf Allies' Stances

  • Saudi Arabia aims to degrade Iran's cruise and ballistic missile capabilities "as much as possible," according to a regional official.
  • The UAE considers it "difficult" to coexist with Iran's missile program, with adviser Anwar Gargash emphasizing the need for solutions that ensure lasting Gulf security.
  • Qatar, whose LNG exports have been halted by Iranian attacks, insists that any resolution must account for the interests of affected Arab neighbors.

US Military Goals

  • US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the objective is to "destroy Iranian offensive missiles, destroy Iranian missile production, destroy their navy and other security infrastructure."
  • The US seeks to prevent Iran from maintaining offensive capabilities that could threaten the region.

Iran's Retaliation and Demands

  • Iran has launched thousands of projectiles at cities in neighboring Arab states, resulting in over 25 deaths and 200 injuries in the Gulf, and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iranian officials demand a new regional status quo, including formal control over the Strait of Hormuz, war reparations, and a shift in Gulf states' alliances with the US.
  • The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is accused of bullying and is labeled "public enemy number one" by Gulf leaders.

Regional Security Implications

  • Gulf states, such as Saudi Arabia under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, are reportedly pushing for continued US action against Iran to seize a "historic opportunity" to remake the Middle East.
  • However, official Saudi statements maintain support for a peaceful resolution while defending against daily attacks.
  • Experts warn that an intact Iran with IRGC power poses a severe threat, and any US-Iran deal must include structured guarantees to prevent future aggression.
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