Trump administration sought Barzani’s help for secret channel with Iran’s IRGC: Axios

The Washington Post, citing Arab and Western officials, reported on Saturday that US-allied Gulf states are growing increasingly frustrated with US President Donald Trump's approach to Iran. The governments of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain share a common sentiment of dissatisfaction with Trump's diplomatic efforts. One Gulf state official commented, "Trump started this war, and we are paying the price," expressing anger at its highest point since the war with Iran commenced in February.

While the United States remains a crucial security partner and arms supplier to the Gulf nations, some governments in the region are questioning the necessity of hosting US military bases on their territory. Growing frustration with Trump's administration's handling of Iran may lead to the consideration of alternative security arrangements, according to the report.

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan initiated a NATO-like alliance known as the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement in early August following Iran's attacks on Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia. This agreement stipulates that an attack on one member is treated as an attack on all, akin to NATO's Article 5, which demands collective defense.

Trump acknowledged the agreement in a post on Truth Social, calling it a "big, bold, and important first step" and expressing optimism about the Middle East's unification and the potential for countries to defend themselves more meaningfully.