Amid growing fears of a potential resumption of United States airstrikes on Iran, political leaders from Gulf nations and their Middle Eastern partners have convened in Manama, Bahrain, to issue a unified call for de-escalation. During the Geopolitics and Security Conference held from October 30 to November 1, organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, these officials temporarily set aside historical rivalries to highlight the disastrous implications of a new high-intensity conflict between Washington and Tehran.
Speakers at the event emphasized that their current influence relies heavily on rhetoric and the ability to appeal to an international audience. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to UAE President Mohammed Ben Zayed Al Nahyane, addressed the gathering on November 1 on behalf of Gulf countries. He stated that a new cycle of confrontation is not in the region's interest, though he expressed skepticism about achieving a diplomatic breakthrough. Gargash noted that while rumors abound, the logical distance between American and Iranian positions suggests the region must prepare for the worst.
The urgency of the situation was further underscored by Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, who warned the day prior that any new military escalation would be more severe and destructive than previous conflicts. Abdelatty specifically highlighted the potential impact such an offensive could have on regional food and energy security. Despite their shared concerns, leaders acknowledged a sense of resignation regarding the unpredictable nature of the looming crisis.
Sources: Le Monde International.