Analysis & Reports

On June 24, 2026, the U.S. government requested $87.6 billion for military operations related to Iran, with $67.15 billion earmarked for military purposes. This funding aims to cover operational costs, personnel salaries, and munitions, indicating a shift towards a prolonged military engagement. The request follows a Senate vote aimed at limiting military action against Iran, highlighting the political tensions surrounding U.S. military involvement in the region.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

Saudi Arabia completed its first heavy maintenance of the Eurofighter Typhoon at King Fahd Air Base in Taif on June 21, 2026, after 2500 flight hours. This maintenance involved 80% Saudi personnel and marks a significant step in the country's military self-sufficiency. The facility in Taif is noted as the only one outside Europe qualified for such maintenance, enhancing the operational readiness of the Royal Saudi Air Force's fleet of 72 Typhoon aircraft.

Ahmed Al-RashidSun Jun 21 2026Loading...

An international coalition led by France and Britain initiated a mine clearance operation in the Strait of Hormuz on June 16, 2026, involving 38 countries. This operation aims to secure maritime routes for oil and gas tankers amid rising tensions and threats from Iran. The coalition seeks to ensure safe passage through a critical area that handles a significant portion of global oil trade.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue Jun 16 2026Loading...

The European Aspides mission is expanding to include four ships to enhance protection for shipping in the Strait of Hormuz as of May 28, 2026. This expansion aims to address the challenges posed by Iranian military threats and ensure freedom of navigation in a critical global energy corridor. The mission currently operates with limited naval assets, highlighting the logistical difficulties faced by European forces in the region.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat May 30 2026Loading...

The Gulf states are facing a significant missile defense gap due to the depletion of U.S. stocks of Patriot and THAAD missiles after the Iran war, with replenishment not expected until 2029. Saudi Arabia has a pending order for 360 THAAD missiles, while the UAE has purchased 96 Patriot missiles, both of which have been heavily utilized. This situation raises concerns about the Gulf's defense capabilities and reliance on U.S. military support.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri May 29 2026Loading...

U.S. Central Command conducted defensive strikes against Iranian missile launch sites and minesweeping boats in Southern Iran on May 25, 2026. This action occurred amid discussions about negotiations to open the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring the ongoing military tensions in the region. The strikes were aimed at protecting U.S. forces from Iranian threats, highlighting the complexities of military operations during diplomatic efforts.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue May 26 2026Loading...

On May 21, 2026, Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, visited the eastern border to announce enhanced security measures in the Jordan Valley. Israel is implementing new physical and technological barriers, radar systems, and advanced surveillance to prevent arms smuggling and infiltration by militias loyal to Iran. This shift indicates a move towards treating the Jordan Valley as an operational front rather than a peaceful border.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu May 21 2026Loading...

U.S. Air Force refueling aircraft, including at least 9 KC-46A and 5 KC-135R, will remain stationed in Israel until at least the end of 2027, enhancing military capabilities against Iran. This presence allows for significant aerial refueling capacity, crucial for potential military operations. The use of Ben Gurion Airport as a military base indicates a shift in its operational role, impacting civilian air traffic and regional military dynamics.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed May 20 2026Loading...

Two temporary Israeli bases were established in western Iraq on May 18, 2026, to support military operations against Iran. These bases enhance Israel's operational capabilities, integrating air support and special operations. Iraqi forces reportedly approached one site in March, resulting in airfire and casualties. The presence of these bases raises concerns about the military sovereignty of Gulf states despite their advanced military equipment.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon May 18 2026Loading...

Iran launched a significant missile and drone attack on the United Arab Emirates on May 4, resulting in the interception of 12 ballistic missiles and 4 drones. Kuwait confirmed a drone incursion on May 10, while a Qatari cargo vessel was struck by a drone the same day. Gulf states are ramping up defense spending and rearmament efforts in response to these escalating threats, with Saudi Arabia allocating $78 billion to defense in 2025.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed May 13 2026Loading...

Iranian missiles and drones continued to strike targets across the Gulf as of May 12, 2026, despite a ceasefire agreement. The U.S. Navy responded with airstrikes against Iranian military facilities. The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to commercial shipping, and the UAE reported significant drone and missile activity. A major oil spill from Iran's Kharg Island has raised environmental concerns.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue May 12 2026Loading...

Iran launched a coordinated attack on the United Arab Emirates on May 4, firing at least 12 ballistic missiles and four drones, which were intercepted by Emirati defenses. The U.S. military responded with airstrikes on Iranian facilities at Qeshm Island and Bandar Abbas. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with 13 U.S. military fatalities and over 2,350 civilian deaths reported. The situation in the Persian Gulf remains tense, with both sides engaged in a maritime standoff and military operations continuing.

Ahmed Al-RashidSun May 10 2026Loading...

The United States significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East, conducting 97 heavy transport sorties and deploying three aircraft carriers. An Iranian F-5 successfully bombed Camp Buehring in Kuwait, highlighting vulnerabilities in U.S. air defenses. Concurrently, Iran escalated tensions by attacking commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, complicating the regional security environment.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Apr 29 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy initiated a blockade of Iranian ports on April 14, 2026, effectively restricting maritime access in the Persian Gulf. This action followed failed ceasefire talks and aims to enforce U.S. sanctions against Iran. The blockade has led to the interception of vessels and heightened tensions in the region, with Iran responding defiantly to the U.S. military presence.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Apr 15 2026Loading...

Iran is weaponizing the Strait of Hormuz by launching drone and missile attacks against Gulf states while restricting maritime traffic to 15 vessels per day. Since the ceasefire began, Iran has launched at least 45 cruise missiles and caused significant casualties, with 32 fatalities in Gulf nations and 20 in Israel. The U.S. and Israeli air campaign has severely degraded Iran's military capabilities, yet Iran continues to exert pressure through asymmetric warfare and economic coercion.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Apr 11 2026Loading...

Gulf Cooperation Council states have intercepted numerous Iranian drone and missile attacks targeting critical infrastructure since late February 2026. Qatar intercepted 98 out of 101 ballistic missiles, while Bahrain neutralized 61 missiles and 34 drones. The Gulf states are transforming their military capabilities, drawing lessons from Ukraine's conflict, and are increasingly localizing defense production. Ukraine is providing expertise to help counter Iranian threats, indicating a significant shift in regional defense strategies.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Apr 04 2026Loading...

The U.S. Department of State approved over $16.5 billion in arms sales to the UAE, Kuwait, and Jordan in March 2026, enhancing their air defense capabilities amid the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict. The UAE is set to receive advanced missiles and precision munitions, while Kuwait will upgrade its missile defense infrastructure. These transactions signify a strategic transformation in Gulf military capabilities, moving towards integrated defense systems capable of independent operations.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Mar 27 2026Loading...

Iran launched missile strikes on data centers near Abu Dhabi and Riyadh on March 23, 2026, prompting Bahrain and UAE to intercept multiple attacks using their air defense systems. The crisis has disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, affecting global energy supplies and Gulf economies. Gulf states are navigating a complex security landscape while engaging in diplomatic efforts to stabilize relations with Iran.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Mar 25 2026Loading...

Gulf Cooperation Council states intercepted over 800 Iranian missiles and drones during late February to early March 2026, showcasing advanced military capabilities. Qatar intercepted 101 out of 104 ballistic missiles, while Bahrain intercepted 61 missiles and 34 drones. This operation reflects a significant transformation in Gulf defense, emphasizing integrated systems and strategic autonomy without reliance on external forces.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Mar 23 2026Loading...

Iran launched a significant attack on Gulf Cooperation Council member states from March 17 to 19, 2026, deploying 314 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,672 drones, primarily targeting the United Arab Emirates. The strikes severely damaged critical energy infrastructure in Qatar, prompting Gulf states to seek emergency military assistance from allies. Concurrently, Hezbollah escalated tensions by launching missiles at Israel, further complicating the regional security landscape.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Mar 21 2026Loading...