Who are the Gulf’s military allies, and how are they helping in Iran war?

Al JazeeraCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete by Sarah ShamimMarch 20, 2026 at 02:45 PM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

As the US-Israeli war on Iran escalates in March 2026, Gulf countries are increasingly targeted by Iranian strikes, including drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. While Gulf states maintain their defenses are sufficient, they also have military partnerships that could provide assistance. Qatar hosts the largest US military base in the region, Al Udeid, serving as the forward headquarters for US Central Command. Qatar is also the second-largest Foreign Military Sales partner to the US, having recently purchased missile systems, early warning systems, and attack helicopters. In September 2025, Israel struck a residential area in Qatar's capital, Doha, targeting Hamas leaders. The US has reaffirmed its support for Qatar, stating that an attack on its territory would be viewed as an attack on the US.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Donald Trump 30% UK 30% Hamas 40% Al Udeid Air Base 40% Kuwait Petroleum Corporation 50% Israel ×360% Saudi Arabia ×260% Qatar ×670% United States ×670% Gulf States ×580% Iran ×690%

Keywords

gulf states 90% iran war 90% military partnerships 80% iranian strikes 80% qatar 70% us military 70% al udeid 60% foreign military sales 50% drone attacks 50%