The Big Picture of Gulf Countries in the Israel-Hamas Conflict

As the world watches with bated breath, the Israel-Hamas conflict has once again illuminated the complex dynamics of Gulf countries. Beyond the headlines and political rhetoric a sudden flurry spread over the Gulf nations, quick change in the statements of GCC countries.

From clandestine diplomacy to public displays of support or condemnation, these nations hold considerable sway throughout events in the region. The Recent developments in this is the meetings between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), as well as the United Kingdom’s (UK) Prime Minister’s visit to Qatar, have added new dimensions to the region’s response to the conflict. Now Cairo Peace Conference is the big event where the Gaza Conflict will be the main focus.

The Israel-Hamas conflict is a longstanding and complex issue that has been a source of tension and violence in the Middle East for decades. As such, it comes as no surprise that Gulf countries have often found themselves in the role of mediator, attempting to broker peace between the two sides.

Before moving on to what efforts and movements we are witnessing on Gulf lands, I would like to highlight some noteworthy points for your easy understanding.

Each Gulf country has its unique relationships with both Israel and Hamas, which complicates the effort of mediation.

‘Gulf’- It is a region with its own political and internal divisions and very competing interests. This is the main reason why the Gulf region makes it difficult to unify front any time to mediate conflicts.

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Each Gulf Country has historical alignment with Western nations like the US, UK, and Russia.

This close relationship has often put these countries at odds with other regional players such as Iran and Syria who support Hamas. As a result, Gulf countries are viewed by some as biased towards Israel and therefore may lack credibility as neutral mediators in the eyes of certain parties involved in the conflict.

Gulf is Facing Ideological Challenge

When GCC tries to mediate between Israel and Hamas they also face a big challenge of ‘Ideology’.

Many of these nations follow conservative interpretations of Islam or adhere to traditional tribal values that view any involvement or cooperation with Israel as unacceptable.

Gulf countries are not immune to the impact of this conflict between Israel and Hamas, and recent developments underscore the evolving dynamics in the region.

GCC-ASEAN Meetings: Seeking Diplomatic Solutions

Recently the meeting of GCC and ASEAN was held in Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh on 20^th Oct 2023, where countries presented concerted efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Controversial Stance of Qatar

Qatar is presenting controversy in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The narrative is arising that the country will support Islamist groups, which is raising tensions in the Gulf region. While Qatar has emphasized its role as a mediator in various international conflicts, its alignment with Islamist groups such as Hamas is viewed with suspicion by some regional players.

UK’s PM Visit to Qatar: A Diplomatic Endeavor

The recent visit of the UK Prime Minister to Qatar underscores the international community’s interest in addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict. The UK has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to find a resolution to the conflict. The visit to Qatar reflects the UK’s recognition of the Gulf region’s significance in the broader context of Middle East peace efforts

Cairo Peace Summit to End Israel-Hamas War

Egypt is hosting an international conference today to discuss the escalating war between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas in Gaza. Leaders of a dozen countries, including top officials from Turkey, Qatar, and Europe, are converging on Egypt for the conference, but the absence of the big three at the heart of the conflict makes it highly unlikely the summit can pull anything out of the hat.

The Israel-Hamas conflict continues to impact Gulf countries in many ways, it is increasing tension in this region. Recent meetings between the GCC and ASEAN demonstrate the region’s commitment to pursuing diplomatic solutions. Cairo meeting will be the next global stage where Gulf leaders will present their intentions again.

Gulf countries find themselves navigating a complex regional landscape where diplomatic efforts, political interests, and historical ties intersect.

The evolving dynamics in the Gulf region are a testament to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the pursuit of lasting peace.