How the Gulf can turn threats into shared purpose

Dr Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed, called for greater collective defense in the Gulf amid escalating threats from Iran-backed groups. These threats, such as the Houthi attacks on Riyadh's King Khalid airport, highlight the severe human toll of not deterring assaults or intercepting missiles. The consequences extend beyond the immediate target, affecting global trade, energy infrastructure, and the environment.

Airlines face higher costs and increased flight rerouting, while investors reassess their operations in the volatile region. The Gulf's role as a global hub is at risk due to these disruptions, affecting commerce with Europe, Asia, and Africa. Environmental security is another shared concern, as attacks on energy infrastructure can lead to pollution that transcends borders, creating a long-term problem.

The concentration of energy facilities in the Strait of Hormuz amplifies the impact of a significant spill. Arab nations may compete in some markets, but their economies are interconnected. Disruptions in one country can spread to its neighbors. Joint environmental response measures and plans to safeguard critical infrastructure could enhance the region's collective resilience against severe events.

This approach does not require a complete shift in individual national priorities but rather strengthens the existing bonds between Gulf societies, acknowledging that while economic interdependence fosters shared prosperity, it also demands unified responses to threats. As ideological actors target others, the region may ultimately adopt a more cohesive stance to address the challenges they face.