Iran has intensified its campaign against Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, deliberately focusing on nations perceived as less fortified than Israel, according to defence analysts. Recent strikes on luxury hotels in Dubai, residential complexes in Bahrain, and airports across the region are part of Tehran’s strategy to impose immediate political and economic pressure on Washington’s allies.
Officials note that Iran is targeting civilian and tourist hubs to generate public concern and force local governments to push for rapid de-escalation. Analysts suggest that if these initial strikes fail to achieve Tehran’s objectives, Iran may escalate attacks on residential areas to further amplify political pressure within the Gulf.
Asymmetrical Military Tactics
Iran’s approach leverages asymmetrical warfare to stretch US defence capabilities. By diversifying its targets—including civilian infrastructure, energy hubs, and key geographic locations—the Iranian military aims to thin out protective measures, increasing the likelihood of hitting high-value US and Israeli installations in the region.
Economic and Energy Pressure
Critical infrastructure, including Saudi Aramco facilities and major ports, has been hit to disrupt revenue streams and energy production. In Qatar, missile attacks reportedly struck water storage and energy facilities at Mesaieed and Ras Laffan. Meanwhile, Israel’s Energy Ministry temporarily halted operations at the Leviathan gas field, jeopardising a $35 billion export deal. Beyond energy, Tehran is reportedly signalling that essential food and water reserves in GCC nations could also be at risk if military pressure continues.
Global Oil Supply at Risk
Central to Iran’s leverage is the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 22 percent of global oil supply flows. Disruptions in this corridor could trigger worldwide energy shortages and economic shocks. Analysts say Tehran’s willingness to threaten shipping lanes demonstrates its intent to make any conflict with Iran far-reaching, with consequences for global markets.
Neutralising Regional Military Platforms
Iran has framed US military bases in neighbouring Gulf countries as “offensive platforms” facilitating attacks against its territory. Striking these locations, Tehran signals that any nation hosting US or Israeli operations risks becoming a direct participant in hostilities, placing GCC leaders in a challenging position between alliance obligations and national security concerns.
Testing GCC Cohesion
Observers believe Iran’s strategy also aims to reveal fractures within the GCC. Sustained attacks on infrastructure, energy, and residential areas are testing the unity of Gulf nations, forcing them to either advocate for diplomacy aligned with Tehran’s objectives or face ongoing destabilisation. Analysts note that this strategy could weaken regional cohesion and redefine the Gulf’s role in ongoing Middle East tensions.
“Tehran’s calculated targeting of soft spots in the Gulf demonstrates a shift toward coercive pressure, blending economic disruption with direct military messaging,” said a regional security expert.
