Iran war: how are the states in the region reacting?
In reaction to ongoing strikes, Iran has fired missiles and drones at Israel, US bases in the region and targets in its wealthy Gulf neighbour states. However, most of the projectiles have been intercepted. Turkey has said it shot down a missile that was apparently aimed at Cyprus. The Gulf states' relations with the Tehran on the one hand, and with Washington and Tel Aviv on the other are becoming increasingly complex.
Farewell to the dream of peaceful coexistence
The Gulf states don't want war, Il Manifesto puts in:
“In recent years, despite their conflicting positions and networks of alliances, Sunni countries have been working towards normalising relations with Tehran, aware that serious destabilisation would jeopardise the stability of their societies and economies. The presence of traditionally marginalised Shiite communities, the need to maintain the image of stable and 'modern' islands in a conflict-ridden region, and their dependence on the global economy have prompted Sunni rulers to adopt a 'moderate' stance towards Tehran and to pressure Washington for months not to give in to Israel's siren song.”
Striking out in anger will backfire
Iran is ruining its relations with its neighbours, writes Trud:
“In their impotent rage, the mullahs are committing a colossal error. They have organised a massive attack on all the countries of the Persian Gulf with which they have a tacit non-aggression pact. This is extremely unwise, because if the mullahs remain in power they will have to somehow coexist with their neighbours. But now they have fired around a thousand missiles and drones at the United Arab Emirates alone.”
Turkey caught between two fronts
In Politis, Turkish Cypriot columnist Şener Levent sees Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in a bind:
“He is trying to settle the matter with a few critical remarks about Israel, without even mentioning the US and Trump. How far will this go? There are American bases in Turkey. ... Turkey doesn't seem to be allowing them to be used for the time being. ... If Iran is attacked [from there], it will certainly respond, and Turkey would become officially involved in the war. If Erdoğan gives the US permission to use them, he will be attacked by Iran. If he doesn't give it, he will be attacked by Trump. Could it be that our dictator is caught between two fronts?”