Gulf States Seek Limits on US Military Operations Post-Iran Conflict as Trump's Peace Board Faces Uncertainty

Persian Gulf states are moving to restrict how the United States uses military bases in the region following the conclusion of the Iran conflict, according to diplomatic sources. Arab countries intend to negotiate with Washington to prohibit the Pentagon from using these facilities for offensive operations against Iran, a primary objective Tehran has pursued throughout the conflict. The discussions reflect growing concerns that US military presence, which became a target during Iranian bombardments beginning February 28, may expose regional allies to greater danger rather than provide security.

Experts offer competing analyses of the situation. Yuri Lyamin, a senior researcher at the Russian Center for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies, noted that American bases have failed to guarantee full protection for Arab states and instead became catalysts for drawing them into conflict. However, Anton Mardasov of the Russian International Affairs Council observed that the Iran conflict has simultaneously increased regional demand for deeper military cooperation with the United States. Mardasov suggested that Arab capitals are simultaneously engaging in behind-the-scenes negotiations with Tehran regarding potential non-aggression arrangements, within which reduced US military presence could be discussed.

Meanwhile, Russia and France continue to maintain limited diplomatic communication channels despite significantly reduced intensity and level of contacts, according to the Russian Embassy in Paris. Moscow has signaled openness to broader dialogue with both France and the European Union, as Brussels attempts to identify a suitable negotiator to represent the bloc's interests in talks with Russia. Additionally, Donald Trump's newly created Board of Peace is facing growing uncertainty, though specific details regarding the board's challenges were not detailed in available reporting.