Gulf countries warn of rising threat from Iran-backed militias and proxies

"Gulf countries have raised concerns over the prospect of attacks by Iran-backed militias and proxy armed groups in the region, which they fear could destabilise their regimes and escalate the war in the Middle East."

"For decades, Iran has used proxy militias as a pillar of its foreign and security policy, as a means to export its revolution, expand its regional influence and destabilise enemy countries."

"Since the US and Israel began bombing Iran at the end of February, the brunt of Iran's retaliation has been towards the Gulf states, which have close ties to Washington and host several American military bases."

"There are growing signs of Gulf countries trying to crack down on any Iranian proxy activity. In early March, Qatar said it had arrested two cells."

Gulf countries, including Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, have expressed concerns over potential attacks from Iran-backed militias, which threaten regional stability. A joint statement condemned Iranian strikes and proxy activities. Kuwait recently thwarted a plot linked to Hezbollah, highlighting the ongoing threat. Iran's use of proxy militias, such as Hezbollah and the Houthis, has been a key strategy for expanding influence. Despite previous cooperation between Iran and Gulf states, recent US-Israel actions have escalated tensions, prompting fears of activated sleeper cells and increased proxy activity in the region.

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