Gulf States Fear Iran War Could Resume

Across the Gulf, residents and officials fear that fighting between the United States and Iran could resume after the U.S. midterm elections, amid uncertainty over Washington’s intentions and Tehran’s warnings of a stronger response. Gulf states worry they would bear the consequences of a wider, more destructive regional war despite having tried to avert the crisis diplomatically. Regional leaders are pursuing engagement with Iran and other diplomatic channels to reduce tensions and create a path to negotiations, but analysts warn that unresolved disputes and continued retaliation could deepen divisions if diplomacy fails.