A report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies suggests Gulf states must reassess their reliance on US military support and expensive defence systems following recent Iranian attacks.
The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) report highlights that 12 regional states, primarily in the Gulf, faced 4,670 Iranian one-way attack drones and over 1,400 ballistic missiles in the weeks before the 8 April ceasefire. Nearly half of these attacks targeted the United Arab Emirates, with damage to energy infrastructure estimated at up to $58 billion.
The study questions the effectiveness of US military bases and the Gulf states' heavy investment in high-end US weapons, noting that these systems have not provided adequate protection during the conflict. It also points out shortcomings such as a lack of regional defence integration and limited retaliatory options.
Why it matters
The report underscores the vulnerability of Gulf states' reliance on US military support, affecting their economic and strategic interests.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
The potential decision by the US to rebuild or withdraw from damaged bases in the Gulf region.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.