Gulf countries need to readjust their one-trillion-dollar defense systems in light of economic damages and the questionable value of US military bases against Iranian attacks. This conclusion comes from a new study by the International Institute for Strategic Studies.
Previous Security Situation and Iranian Attacks
The report states that in the weeks leading up to the ceasefire on April 8, 12 countries in the region, especially in the Gulf, faced 4,670 one-way Iranian attack drones and over 1,400 ballistic missiles. Nearly half of these attacks were directed at the United Arab Emirates. Although most of these attacks were intercepted, the estimated damage to energy infrastructure is pegged at $58 billion (£43 billion).
Dependence on American Defense Systems
The report clearly states that the recent war represents an uncomfortable truth for Gulf countries: not only have one trillion dollars in arms purchases from the US not led to adequate protection in times of crisis, but the military forces of these countries are also not sufficiently prepared for the new type of aerial warfare they are experiencing.
Despite significant investments in predominantly American weapons, this study points to significant shortcomings: excessive reliance on air and missile defense systems and munitions provided by the US; lack of regional defense integration; shortages in mine-clearing capabilities; limited options for response; and exorbitant costs arising from reliance on expensive systems to counter relatively cheap drones and missiles.
Shifts in Public Attitude and Future Relations
Public opinion in the Gulf towards the US is also changing, shifting from a security provider to a strategic liability. Any reduction or withdrawal of US forces from the region could be described as a strategic success by Iran and could harm the Gulf countries in relation to their long-term dependencies on US support.
This study follows remarks by Chris Murphy, a Democratic senator and member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, who noted that there is a discussion among US military forces regarding the value of rebuilding damaged bases in the Gulf.
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