Gulf

Marco Rubio spoke at a meeting of Southeast Asian foreign ministers in Manila, saying that if Iran does not take diplomacy seriously, the US will "do what's necessary" to protect its interests.

The crisis could strengthen the case for regional defense cooperation, including quiet coordination with Israel, without necessarily bringing the kingdom closer to formal diplomatic relations.

The selection of targets by the US signals a transition from a conventional military campaign to a broader strategic effort aimed at disrupting Iran’s ability to function.

Arab diplomats familiar with the discussions said regional governments increasingly view Netanyahu as an impediment to Trump’s diplomatic ambitions in the Middle East.

Araghchi, according to the Foreign Ministry, made the journey to “meet with Qatari authorities and offer his condolences” after the death of former Qatari emir Sheikh Hamad ‌bin Khalifa ‌ Al-Thani.

Gulf solidarity is now emerging in an even larger way than before. While some countries want an agreement that will end the fighting, they are also outraged by Iran’s new attacks.

The Peninsula Shield Force, the joint military arm of the Gulf Cooperation Council, would likely be the key instrument of any collective action, said the analyst.

Missile attacks, maritime tensions, and the collapse of the June ceasefire are increasing pressure on Gulf governments to balance security with diplomacy.

In many ways, the era that the former emir presided over was a very different Middle East. Against the grain of the time, he was able to position Qatar as a key state in the region.

"Of the 11 Indian nationals on board, 10 have been rescued so far, while one Indian National is reportedly missing," the ministry said, while condemning the attack.