RIYADH: Iran has stressed the need for a “serious review” of relations with Gulf states in the wake of the US-Israel war on Iran, aiming to reduce the influence of external powers and focus on regional prosperity, Iranian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Alireza Enayati told Reuters on Sunday.
Iran’s Stance on Gulf Relations
When asked about concerns that the conflict could damage relations with Gulf neighbors, Enayati said, “We are neighbors and we cannot do without each other; we will need a serious review.” He criticized an exclusionary regional approach and the Gulf states’ over-reliance on foreign powers over the past five decades.
He called for deeper cooperation among the six members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), along with Iraq and Iran, to foster regional stability and development.
Missile and Drone Attacks in the Gulf
Since the outbreak of the conflict on February 28, 2026, Gulf Arab states have faced over 2,000 missile and drone strikes, targeting US diplomatic missions, military bases, oil infrastructure, ports, airports, and hotels. The United Arab Emirates, which normalized relations with Israel in 2020, has borne the brunt of these attacks, though all Gulf countries have condemned the violence.
Saudi Arabia’s attacks have mainly focused on the eastern oil-producing regions, the Prince Sultan Airbase hosting US forces, and the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh, according to Saudi defense ministry statements.
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Iran Denies Responsibility for Saudi Oil Attacks
Ambassador Enayati denied that Iran carried out attacks on Saudi oil facilities, including the Ras Tanura refinery and the Shaybah oil field near the UAE border. He stated, “If Iran had carried them out, it would have announced it.” He did not identify any alternative perpetrators but maintained that Iran’s actions are aimed solely at US and Israeli interests.
Enayati highlighted ongoing contact with Saudi officials, noting progress in cooperation regarding Iranian pilgrims and medical assistance. He also confirmed discussions with Riyadh about Saudi Arabia’s commitment not to use its territory for attacks against Iran.
Iran’s Message to the Region
The ambassador emphasized that the conflict “has been imposed on us and the region”, urging that the US and Israel halt attacks and that regional states avoid involvement. He stressed the importance of international guarantees to prevent future conflicts, saying only then could the Gulf focus on prosperity and stability.
Enayati’s statements reflect Tehran’s effort to position itself as committed to regional dialogue, while distancing itself from attacks on Saudi infrastructure amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
