US allies in the Persian Gulf region, led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, are calling on President Donald Trump to continue military operations against Iran, arguing that Tehran has not been weakened enough after 30 days of bombing.
According to sources from the US, Gulf countries and Israel, cited by the Associated Press, some of the regional allies consider the current moment as a historic opportunity to decisively strike at the power structure in Iran.
After complaints at the beginning of the conflict about a lack of warning from Washington and concerns about the destabilizing consequences in the region, the Gulf countries are now pushing for a continuation of the offensive until significant changes are achieved in the Iranian leadership or in its behavior.
Officials from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Bahrain have expressed in private conversations that they do not support ending the military operation without tangible strategic results.
The United Arab Emirates is among the most aggressive voices, pushing for a ground intervention as Iranian missiles continue to threaten the region's stability and image as a safe economic and tourist hub, according to the report. Kuwait and Bahrain also support this approach.
In contrast, Oman and Qatar, known for their mediating role between Iran and the West, continue to favor a diplomatic solution.
The sources also point out that Saudi Arabia has made it clear to Washington that a premature end to the war would not bring a favorable agreement for the security of Arab countries in the region.
