As the prospect of a new U.S. approach to Iran under Donald Trump emerges, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states find themselves in a complex diplomatic position. The core of the regional debate centers on whether to support a return to a 'maximum pressure' campaign of economic sanctions or to prioritize regional stability to avoid the risk of missile strikes and military conflict.

Analysts suggest that while some Gulf capitals have historically favored aggressive economic measures to curb Iranian influence, the reality of regional security has shifted. The potential for a return to Trump-era policies creates a dilemma: sanctions may weaken Iran’s economy, but they also carry the risk of triggering retaliatory actions that could destabilize Gulf infrastructure and shipping lanes.

There is no consensus among regional powers on the best path forward. Some observers note that Gulf states are increasingly wary of being caught in the crossfire of a direct confrontation between Washington and Tehran. The primary concern remains that a policy focused solely on sanctions could inadvertently lead to a security vacuum or a direct military escalation that the Gulf states are ill-equipped to manage alone. Consequently, regional diplomacy is currently focused on hedging bets, with many nations seeking to maintain open lines of communication with Tehran while simultaneously monitoring Washington’s next moves.