Deterrence and diplomacy needed to counter impact of Iran war, says Gargash

Dr Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed, emphasized the importance of both deterrence and diplomacy in countering the impact of the ongoing Iran war. Speaking at the Abu Dhabi Strategic Debate forum, Gargash clarified that deterrence is not an end in itself but is essential for creating the political conditions necessary for diplomacy to succeed. This partnership between deterrence and diplomacy does not contradict each other, but rather reinforces one another.

Since the start of the Iran war in February with US and Israeli attacks, Iran has launched strikes on civilian targets in Gulf states, Jordan, Iraq, and even shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have also begun attacking Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure and airports more recently.

Gulf states have been under mounting pressure to de-escalate the situation, and the recent Democratic win in the US midterm elections, reflecting public anti-war sentiments, has added to these concerns. Dr Gargash acknowledged that the US midterm elections may have influenced Washington's approach towards Iran, but expressed hope that the outcome would strengthen efforts to pursue diplomatic solutions for lasting peace and stability in the Gulf.

In his speech, Dr Gargash lamented what he believed could have been stronger and more effective Gulf solidarity in response to the Iran attacks that targeted every state in the region since the war began. He drew parallels between this situation and previous crises, such as Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and the Arab uprisings, when better collective action could have been taken.

While Iran and the Gulf states share a common goal of avoiding a permanent war, Dr Gargash stressed that Iran and the Gulf states must still work together to restore predictability to their relations. He reiterated that dialogue is not a concession, but a strategic necessity. Furthermore, future discussions should lead to a "change in behavior" and avoid the same outcomes witnessed throughout the Iran war.