A New Order for the Gulf
The Gulf states are urged to take charge of their own security rather than relying on external powers like the U.S. and Israel. The article suggests that a new regional order could emerge through a treaty with Iran, involving a phased U.S. military withdrawal. Gulf militaries must also adapt to focus on regional defense rather than diplomatic signaling.
- ▪The U.S.-Israeli war with Iran has put Gulf states in a precarious position, making them targets for Iranian attacks.
- ▪Gulf leaders are encouraged to stop waiting for Washington to act in their favor and instead shape their own security outcomes.
- ▪A proposed settlement with Iran could involve a treaty that includes U.S. military withdrawal and concessions from Tehran.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
A New Order for the GulfThe Region Must Build Its Own Security, Not Buy It David B. Roberts May 18, 2026 Bahrainian King Sheikh Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, April 2026 Bandar Algaloud / Courtesy of Saudi Royal Court / Reuters DAVID B. ROBERTS is Reader in Middle East Security Studies at King’s College London, Head of the King’s Institute for Applied Security Studies, and the author of Security Politics of the Gulf Monarchies. More by David B. Roberts Share & Download Print Subscribe to unlock this feature or Sign in. Save Sign in and save to read later Close Share A New Order for the Gulf The Region Must Build Its Own Security, Not Buy It David B.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Foreign Affairs.