Gulf states have tolerated Iranian strikes so far — but their 'defensive' stance won't last forever

Gulf states warned that attacks on energy infrastructure won't "go unanswered" and may retaliate against Iran, though no strikes have occurred so far. The prospect of retaliation raises the risk of disruptions to regional energy infrastructure and upward pressure on oil and gas prices, potentially triggering risk-off moves across markets if escalation occurs.

Analysis

Gulf states warned that attacks on energy infrastructure won't "go unanswered" and may retaliate against Iran, though no strikes have occurred so far. The prospect of retaliation raises the risk of disruptions to regional energy infrastructure and upward pressure on oil and gas prices, potentially triggering risk-off moves across markets if escalation occurs.