In recent times, the partnership between the United States and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states in defence and counter-terrorism matters has entered a crucial phase, driven by the pressing need to manage escalating security threats in the region. This upsurge in collaboration, echoed by Dan Shapiro, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Middle East policy, regarding the pervasive dangers emanating from terrorist threats, highlights a shared recognition among Gulf nations of the critical imperative for collective action.
The explosive security environment in the Middle East poses a constant threat to Gulf States’ security and stability. Escalating disputes, proxy wars, and transnational terrorism have the potential to damage efforts to strengthen defence cooperation and disrupt socio-economic development agendas.
The 9/11 attacks and following US-led wars in Afghanistan and Iraq reshaped US-Gulf relations, leading to improved security cooperation in counterterrorism efforts and regional stability. The Gulf States supplied logistical support and intelligence sharing in the War on Terror, while the United States extended its military presence in the region to combat terrorism and safeguard vital energy infrastructure. However, the US invasion of Iraq in 2003 and its aftermath pushed relations with some Gulf States, particularly Saudi Arabia, which considered the intervention as destabilizing and empowering Iran.
Each of the six GCC nations maintains some form of military agreement or strategic relations with the United States. While Saudi Arabia lacks a standard Defense Cooperation Agreement, it hosts US military assets used for training its National Guard and Ministry of Interior forces. Similarly, Qatar, which has included a Defense Cooperation Agreement with the US since 1992, especially hosts US Air Force personnel due to the presence of CENTCOM.
“The US-GCC defence working groups are embedded in a strong US partnership with the GCC and our collective commitment to collaborating on regional security issues,” said Shapiro. He previously acted as US Ambassador to Israel and Abraham Accords envoy and cautioned that “the threats from terrorism and its proxies are pervasive” in the region.
The multifaceted nature of modern threats demands a comprehensive strategy for defense cooperation. Dialogues between US and Gulf officials on strengthening information sharing and counter-proliferation efforts present this necessity, reflecting a shared understanding of the complexities of the security landscape. By enhancing coordination in blocking illegal maritime shipments to groups like the Houthis, the parties seek to disrupt destabilizing activities and safeguard important sea lanes, thereby protecting shared interests.
Furthermore, suggestions for joint military training emphasise the importance of interoperability and shared operational frameworks. In an age defined by asymmetric threats and hybrid warfare, synchronized reactions and effective communication are paramount. Building a common operating language not only enhances tactical effectiveness but also promotes a sense of camaraderie among allied forces, essential for ensuring the success of defence endeavours.
In addition to bilateral arrangements, the US leads joint military exercises with the GCC states. The Eagle Resolve exercise, a major multinational exercise in the Gulf region since 1999, illustrates this collaboration. The exercise seeks to ensure regional stability and concerns participation from GCC states as well as other countries.
