Gulf states call for de-escalation amidst rising regional tensions

On March 31, 2026, Gulf states declared a unanimous position calling for de-escalation and an end to the conflict in the Middle East. Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the future of the Strait of Hormuz is a matter for the entire region and its international partners to resolve collectively. This development follows a period of military escalation that began on February 28, 2026, with an offensive against Iran involving U.S. and Israeli forces. Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Gulf nations, leading to a de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, a parliamentary committee in Iran approved a plan to impose transit fees on vessels passing through the strait, which handles approximately one-fifth of global oil and gas exports. The United Arab Emirates, which has faced the highest volume of attacks, has emphasized the need for a definitive resolution that addresses Iran's nuclear capabilities, missile arsenal, and regional influence. Sources differ on the characterization of the ongoing conflict, with some attributing the current situation to Iranian retaliation while others focus on the broader security implications of the maritime blockade.