war
West Asia security in flux after US and Israel strikes on Iran
As the US and Israel-led war with Iran enters its second month, Gulf countries and neighbours are rethinking security arrangements after attacks across the Persian Gulf and threats to the Strait of Hormuz.
Apr 1st 2026 · Iran
Insights
- The US and Israel-led military campaign against Iran has entered its second month with Washington and Tel Aviv offering different public accounts of objectives.
- Iran has struck targets across the Persian Gulf and threatened disruption of the Strait of Hormuz, escalating regional risk to shipping and energy flows.
- Gulf states are deepening security cooperation and setting aside prior disputes to respond to immediate threats.
- Pakistan has positioned itself as a mediator, hosting regional foreign ministers to expand its diplomatic role in West Asia.
- Questions are growing about the reliability and scope of US security support, including White House comments about asking Gulf partners to share conflict costs.
- A durable West Asia security architecture faces hard tests on whether it can be rebuilt without Iran's buy-in and amid competing regional interests.
Sources
- Washington’s Middle East gamble may deepen its own decline while reinforcing Beijing’s rise www.dailymaverick.co.za
- What the Middle East war means for China’s ties with Iran www.japantimes.co.jp
- A West Asia security rethink amid America’s role www.thehindu.com
- Why neither US nor Iran can claim victory and what comes next www.dailysabah.com