WAR IS NOT A SOLUTION TO MIDDLE EAST CRISES

Gulf Arab states urge a shift towards diplomacy, stability, and regional cooperation in the wake of Iran-Israel conflict

- BY RASHED HASAN AL HOSANI | Special to Gulf News

The 12-day Israeli-American war on Iran was a renewed test of Gulf wisdom, affirming that war must not be seen as a solution to the Middle East's crises. To prevent such confrontations from recurring, there is an urgent need for a security framework that resolves regional conflicts through political means, not military force.

Recent changes in the region can be understood in light of the Israeli-American strikes on Iran, the Israeli war on Iran and Lebanon, and the wave of violent transformations sweeping the Middle East in recent months.

The Gulf Arab states have consistently demonstrated their willingness to engage with all countries in the region and have supported the use of peaceful means to resolve crises. They have taken the initiative to open channels of dialogue with all parties. However, some actors continue to pursue dual-track policies, projecting diplomacy in official forums while advancing different agendas behind the scenes.

The Arab Gulf states opposed the Israeli aggression against Iran. Their rejection of targeting Iran reflects a clear and consistent policy based on respect for state sovereignty and adherence to the principles of international law. At the same time, this position also holds true for any targeting of Qatar or any other Arab country by Iran. If Iran genuinely seeks to build trust with the Gulf and Arab states, it must commit to refraining from such behaviour in the future.

Shift in philosophy