Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates actively support the maritime blockade and U.S. sanctions against Iran. Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, has informed U.S. officials that Washington should continue the maritime blockade against Iran until Tehran is compelled to sign a new agreement.
New Positions of the UAE and Saudi Arabia
Emirati officials have also called for maintaining maximum pressure in light of escalating conflicts. This stance contrasts with the previous apparent approach of these countries, which sought negotiation. The Islamic Republic of Iran considers Riyadh and Abu Dhabi's actions a betrayal of regional good neighborliness and emphasizes that it will respond appropriately at the right time.
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Factors Behind the Shift in Saudi and Emirati Approach
Two main factors have led to the shift in the approach of Saudi Arabia and the UAE: first, the oil blockade by the Saudi regime, which threatens the security of the country's oil exports, and second, Tehran's support for the Houthis in Yemen against Saudi aggression. These two Arab countries are seeking justification to continue aligning with the U.S., while Qatar and Oman are pursuing a diplomatic path.
Iran is well aware of which countries stand with the Iranian people and which have aligned with Iran's enemies. The recent positioning of Riyadh and Abu Dhabi in support of the U.S. blockade will be recorded in the history of these countries. The Supreme Leader has emphasized that Iran will not bow to bullying and that any action taken against Iran's national interests will be met with a decisive response.
Iran possesses numerous strategic tools that have proven effective in recent years. One of Iran's most significant advantages is its geographical position in the Strait of Hormuz. The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council has stated that if the U.S. continues its economic war, oil exports from the Strait of Hormuz will be halted.
Iran can approve a plan to issue permits for the passage of ships on a case-by-case basis and turn this mechanism into a pressure lever. Additionally, Iran can coordinate with its ally Yemen to close the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and create further threats against the security of tankers in the region.
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