This episode unpacks how the war with Iran will affect the future of the Gulf countries’ security and economic prosperity.

 

Host:

James M. Lindsay, Mary and David Boies Distinguished Senior Fellow in U.S. Foreign Policy, CFR

 

Guest:

Mina Al-Oraibi, Editor-in-Chief, The National

 

We Discuss:

• Whether Gulf states supported or opposed the war with Iran and their role in the intensive diplomatic efforts to avoid conflict before it began.
• How Iran’s retaliation expanded the war into the Gulf, targeting civilian infrastructure, energy hubs, and global transit points.
• The scale of drone and missile attacks across the region, and what they reveal about modern asymmetric warfare.
• Who is actually in charge in Iran, and how the IRGC is shaping decision-making and escalation.
• Why regime change in Iran remains unlikely, despite internal unrest and external pressure.
• Why Gulf leaders don’t want a simple ceasefire, but rather a long-term security reset that addresses Iran’s missile and drone programs.
• How the war is stress-testing Gulf economies and their long-term bets on stability, globalization, and diversification.

 

 

Mentioned on the Episode:

 

Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, July 14, 2015

 

Vibhu Mishra, "Security Council Adopts Gulf-Backed Resolution Condemning Iran Attacks; Russia Bid Fails," United Nations News

 

For an episode transcript and show notes, visit The President’s Inbox at: https://www.cfr.org/podcasts/presidents-inbox/gulf-states-under-fire

 

Opinions expressed on The President’s Inbox are solely those of the host or guests, not of CFR, which takes no institutional positions on matters of policy.