Saudi political analyst Suleiman Al-Aqili has warned that Gulf countries hosting US military bases are at risk, as America prioritizes protecting Israel amid the ongoing Iran-US-Israel conflict.
“America has abandoned us, and focused its defense systems on protecting Israel, leaving the Gulf states that host its military bases at the mercy of Iranian missiles and drones,” Al-Aqili told Al Jazeera.
Operation Epic Fury Targets Iran
The United States launched a major military campaign against Iran on February 28, named Operation Epic Fury, targeting Iranian missile facilities, naval bases, and locations near the office of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The strikes were coordinated with Israel and have already caused significant casualties in Iran.
Gulf States Intercept Iranian Drones
On Monday, both Qatar and Saudi Arabia reported intercepting Iranian drones aimed at energy facilities and military bases. No casualties were reported. The Qatari Defence Ministry said two drones were intercepted: one targeting a water tank at a power plant in Mesaieed, south of Doha, and the other striking an energy facility in Ras Laffan, the country’s main site for liquefied natural gas production.
Expert Perspective
Suleiman Al-Aqili, a member of the Saudi Association for Political Science, frequently comments on regional geopolitics and appears on media outlets including Al-Ikhbariya, Al-Hurra, Suhail Channel, and Al Jazeera. He highlighted the growing vulnerability of Gulf countries amid escalating tensions, noting that while the US shields Israel, the region itself remains exposed.
“The Gulf is bearing the brunt of Iran’s missile and drone attacks, while US defenses prioritize protecting Israel,” Al-Aqili said, underscoring the risks for civilian and energy infrastructure in the region.
Rising Regional Tensions
The ongoing conflict has already caused widespread destruction across Iran, the UAE, Kuwait, and other Gulf states. Explosions and airstrikes continue as Tehran retaliates for the killing of its Supreme Leader, raising concerns about further escalation and the security of oil and gas facilities critical to global energy supplies.
