Analysis & Reports

AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources

Saudi, UAE, and Qatari Investments in Alternatives to Hormuz Reveal the Limits of Gulf Security in 2026

Political-MilitaryLogisticsStrategic

Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar, are investing in alternative routes to the Strait of Hormuz due to security concerns. Traffic through the strait has significantly decreased, prompting these nations to enhance their logistical capabilities and diversify their export routes. This shift indicates a lack of confidence in the security of traditional maritime pathways, as military threats persist in the region.

Ahmed Al-RashidAhmed Al-RashidSun Aug 30 2026
Saudi Arabia Leads the Red Sea Alliance 2026 with the Participation of 14 Countries to Protect Bab el-Mandeb

Saudi Arabia Leads the Red Sea Alliance 2026 with the Participation of 14 Countries to Protect Bab el-Mandeb

Political-MilitaryMilitary OperationsStrategic AssessmentStrategic

Saudi Arabia announced the formation of a maritime coalition on July 30, 2026, involving 14 countries to protect Bab el-Mandeb. This coalition aims to enhance maritime security in the Red Sea and respond to regional threats, particularly from Iranian-backed militias. Notably, the UAE and Oman did not participate in the initial signing, reflecting regional sensitivities. The coalition seeks to establish a framework for collective maritime defense among over 50 nations.

Ahmed Al-RashidAhmed Al-RashidTue Aug 04 2026
Iran Reopens Tehran Sanaa Air Bridge in 2026 as Houthis Threaten Saudi Airports and Red Sea Shipping

Iran Reopens Tehran Sanaa Air Bridge in 2026 as Houthis Threaten Saudi Airports and Red Sea Shipping

Military OperationsPolitical-MilitaryOperational

Iran reopened the air bridge between Tehran and Sanaa on July 6, 2026, following the arrival of an Iranian civilian flight carrying over 200 individuals. The Houthis issued threats against Saudi airports and maritime interests, asserting their capability to retaliate against any Saudi attempts to intercept flights. This development signifies a strategic military and political maneuver by Iran and the Houthis to enhance their operational presence in the region.

Ahmed Al-RashidAhmed Al-RashidTue Jul 07 2026
GNSS Jamming in the Strait of Hormuz Affects 1,100 Ships and Exposes the Fragility of Gulf Maritime Defense 2026

GNSS Jamming in the Strait of Hormuz Affects 1,100 Ships and Exposes the Fragility of Gulf Maritime Defense 2026

Information OperationsMilitary OperationsInformational

On May 25, 2026, Iranian military jamming of GNSS systems affected approximately 1100 ships in the Strait of Hormuz, revealing vulnerabilities in maritime defense. This electronic warfare tactic complicates navigation and raises operational risks for vessels in the region. Concurrently, U.S. forces conducted defensive strikes against Iranian missile launch sites, indicating ongoing military tensions.

Ahmed Al-RashidAhmed Al-RashidThu May 28 2026
The Hormuz Agreement is Close to Being Finalized, and the Final Window for US-Iran War End Negotiations Has Opened

The Hormuz Agreement is Close to Being Finalized, and the Final Window for US-Iran War End Negotiations Has Opened

Political-MilitaryMilitary OperationsStrategic

Trump announced that negotiations to end the U.S.-Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz are nearing completion, with key involvement from Pakistan and other Gulf states. The agreement aims to establish a ceasefire and address maritime operations, while deferring discussions on Iran's nuclear program to later talks. This shift reflects a focus on regional stability rather than military victory.

Ahmed Al-RashidAhmed Al-RashidSat May 23 2026

The Ceasefire's Long Shadow: How Gulf States Are Rewiring Their Strategic Architecture at Day 78 of the Iran War

Military OperationsPolitical-MilitaryOperational

On May 16, 2026, the Iran War entered its 78th day, with Gulf states reconfiguring their military strategies in response to Iranian threats. U.S. Central Command reported over 1,450 precision strikes that severely degraded Iran's military capabilities. Concurrently, Gulf states are enhancing their defense infrastructure and forming new alliances to address regional security challenges. Sub-ceasefire drone attacks attributed to Iranian-aligned factions continue to pose threats to Gulf nations.

Ahmed Al-RashidAhmed Al-RashidSun May 17 2026

The Gulf's Crucible: How the 2026 Iran War Is Reshaping GCC Defense Architecture

Military OperationsForce MovementWeapons & EquipmentHybrid

As of May 11, 2026, more than twenty U.S. Navy warships enforce a blockade on Iranian ports amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian forces launched missile strikes on the UAE, damaging the Fujairah port. Saudi Arabia has enhanced military coordination with Pakistan, while Israel supports the UAE with intelligence and air defense technologies. Gulf states are increasingly diversifying their defense strategies, reflecting a shift in regional security dynamics.

Ahmed Al-RashidAhmed Al-RashidMon May 11 2026

Three Carriers, 97 Sorties, and a Broken Shield: The Gulf Military Picture in Late April 2026

Military OperationsLogisticsStrategic AssessmentHybrid

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-RashidAhmed Al-RashidWed Apr 29 2026

When Intelligence Influence Becomes a Weapon: Egypt and China Encircle the Israeli Mossad in Africa

Political-MilitaryMilitary OperationsISR ActivityStrategic

Egyptian and Chinese intelligence agencies initiated a campaign in early 2026 to counter Israeli Mossad activities across Africa, focusing on Sudan and Libya. This collaboration involves advanced surveillance technologies and military exercises, aiming to diminish Israeli influence in the region. The partnership reflects a strategic alignment between Egypt and China against common threats.

Ahmed Al-RashidAhmed Al-RashidMon Feb 16 2026