Qatar, UAE urge Gulf to strengthen security beyond US reliance

Qatar and the United Arab Emirates have jointly urged the Gulf region to bolster its own defence capabilities, arguing that reliance on United States security guarantees is no longer sufficient. In a joint statement issued by officials from both states, the two governments highlighted growing regional tensions and the need for a more self‑reliant security posture to address potential threats from Iran.

The statement also underscored the difficulty of building trust with Iran, describing the relationship as a “mountain to climb.” It warned that the economic interdependence between the Gulf states and Tehran could leave their economies vulnerable, asserting that they cannot afford to be held hostage by Iranian policy. The call for enhanced regional cooperation is intended to strengthen collective deterrence and safeguard the economic stability of the Gulf.

Both Qatar and the UAE are urging Gulf allies to accelerate the development of integrated defence systems and to pursue greater strategic autonomy. The move reflects a broader shift in the region toward reducing dependence on external military support while addressing the evolving security landscape shaped by Iran’s regional ambitions.