Deterrence and diplomacy needed to counter impact of Iran war, says Gargash
Deterrence and diplomacy work hand in hand and do not contradict one another, even as Iranian strikes in the region and indirect talks to end the war continue, Dr Anwar Gargash , diplomatic adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed, has said. “Deterrence is not an end in and of itself,” he told the Abu Dhabi Strategic Debate forum. “While its purpose is to prevent further aggression, it’s also…
Dr Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed, emphasized the importance of both deterrence and diplomacy in countering the impact of Iran's recent war on the region. During the Abu Dhabi Strategic Debate forum, Gargash clarified that "deterrence is not an end in and of itself." He asserted that while deterrence aims to prevent further aggression, it is also crucial to establish the political conditions necessary for diplomacy to succeed. These principles, he explained, do not contradict one another; instead, they complement each other.
Since February, Iran has been responsible for a series of strikes on civilian targets in Gulf states, Jordan, Iraq, and shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have also recently targeted Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure and airports. Diplomatic talks between the US and Iran continue amid growing pressure for de-escalation. The recent Democratic victory in the US midterm elections, reflecting public anti-war sentiment, has raised questions about how US foreign policy towards the region may change.
Gargash noted that the Gulf nations' response to Iran's attacks has been insufficiently solidaristic. He lamented the lack of stronger collective action, drawing parallels to past Gulf solidarity efforts in response to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and the Arab uprisings. While acknowledging the natural differences among neighbors, Gargash stressed the importance of rebuilding trust in Gulf relationships.
Despite Iran's continued threats, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warning of explosions and fires for ships violating unauthorised routes in the Strait of Hormuz, Gargash maintained that Iran and the Gulf share a common goal: averting a "permanent" war. He reiterated that dialogue is not a concession but a strategic necessity. Future discussions must not replicate the outcomes witnessed during the Iran war and should demonstrate a "change in behaviour."
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