politics
March 14, 2026
‘Worst nightmare’: anger and frustration as Gulf states bear brunt of war they did not start
Closure of strait of Hormuz puts pressure on region’s economies amid growing resentment about conflict started by US and Israel
TL;DR
- Gulf states are facing severe consequences, including attacks on oil ports and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, due to escalating conflict with Iran.
- There is widespread anger and frustration among Gulf leaders and citizens towards the US and Israel for initiating strikes against Iran, despite diplomatic efforts to prevent war.
- The conflict has led to a drastic reduction in oil and gas exports, causing significant daily financial losses for Gulf economies, and has severely impacted regional aviation and tourism.
- Gulf states, who have long relied on the US for security, are questioning the reliability of their partnership and are seeking greater strategic autonomy.
- Oman has openly condemned the US and Israeli military attacks as illegal, suggesting the conflict is aimed at reshaping the Middle East in Israel's favor.