Are Gulf Leaders Backing Trump's War on Iran? Arab State Admits Getting Help From Russia, China

Iran's foreign minister has admitted that Russia and China are providing military cooperation to Tehran as it faces off against the US and Israel in an escalating war. At the same time, Gulf leaders are showing reluctance to back President Donald Trump's push for a broader coalition against Iran, preferring to seek diplomatic solutions amid soaring oil prices.

Iran's Strategic Alliances with Russia and China

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi revealed in an interview that Tehran has close ties with Moscow and Beijing, including military ones. 'We have had close cooperation in the past, which still continues, and that includes military cooperation as well,' he said.

The partnerships have intensified over the past decade in response to US opposition. Iran has supplied Russia with Shahed drones for use in Ukraine and signed a 25-year economic agreement with China in 2021 for oil supplies. Reports indicate Russia is providing intelligence to Iran to target US forces in the region.

This support strengthens Iran's position in the current conflict. Trump has speculated that Vladimir Putin might be helping Iran, highlighting the perceived mutual aid between adversaries.

Gulf Leaders' Stance on Trump's Iran War

Gulf states like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait are resisting Trump's pressure to join the war, seeing little benefit given the US's contradictory objectives. Some senior Gulf officials were caught off guard by the escalation, having supported earlier diplomatic efforts to resolve Iran's nuclear standoff.

Reports suggest Gulf leaders have convinced Trump to ease off on certain attacks. Iran has launched over 2,000 missiles and drones at these countries, with 40% directed at Israel and the majority at Arab neighbours, aiming to detach them from Washington. Kamal Kharrazi, a key Iranian adviser, stated that strikes would continue to push Gulf states to persuade Trump to step back. Trump called the attacks on allies the biggest surprise of the war.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham warned of consequences if countries like Saudi Arabia refuse to participate. A UAE official noted that Iran is a permanent neighbour and relations must normalise eventually. Analysts highlight distrust in Trump's prioritisation of Israel's security. Risks to infrastructure, such as desalination plants, add to the caution—Iran struck a Bahraini facility after an attack on its Qeshm Island plant.

The UAE denied involvement in the Qeshm strike and committed to a defensive posture. However, as Eyal Yakoby noted on X, Gulf leaders are privately urging Trump to continue the war, fearing Iran could learn that striking Gulf states can influence US policy.

Economic and Regional Impacts

The conflict has disrupted energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has closed to enemy ships. Oil prices have risen above £75.50 ($100) per barrel, with potential to reach £113.30 ($150). Qatar has halted LNG production, affecting 20% of global supply. Gulf states are assessing overseas investments amid economic pressures.

The war has brought rare unity among Gulf countries in pushing for diplomacy. Tensions in the Red Sea from Houthi threats further complicate the situation. Trump has demanded about seven countries join a coalition to police the Strait and escort oil vessels.

Despite claiming victory, this request for aid underscores ongoing difficulties in Trump's Iran war. Gulf leaders continue to navigate between immediate threats and long-term regional stability.