Archive · 15 Jan 2026
Gulf Nations Convince Trump to Avoid Iran Attack
Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman worked hard to convince US President Donald Trump not to attack Iran.
They were worried that an attack would cause big problems in their region.
The US had been thinking about attacking Iran because of how Iran was treating people protesting in their country.
But after talks, the US decided not to attack after getting promises from Iran that they wouldn't hurt protesters.
The Gulf countries also told Iran that if they attacked US bases, it would hurt their relationships with other countries in the area.
Everyone is still talking to make sure things stay peaceful.
Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman led diplomatic efforts to prevent a US attack on Iran.
US considered military action against Iran due to its crackdown on protesters.
US moved personnel from a major base in Qatar and warned staff in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
Iran threatened retaliation with strikes on US military and shipping targets.
US decided against attacking Iran after receiving assurances from 'very important sources'.
- Who
- Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, US, Iran
- What
- Gulf nations convince Trump to avoid attacking Iran, US moves personnel from bases in the region
- When
- During escalating tensions in 2024
- Where
- Middle East, specifically Gulf region
- Why
- To prevent regional instability and avoid uncontrollable situations
Gulf Nations
US Administration
Diplomatic Efforts
Gulf Nations
Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman led diplomatic efforts to prevent a US attack on Iran, fearing regional instability.
US Administration
US considered military action against Iran due to its crackdown on protesters but ultimately decided against it.
Iran's Assurances
Gulf Nations
Gulf nations conveyed to Iran that attacking US facilities would harm relations with regional countries.
US Administration
US received assurances from 'very important sources' that Iran would not execute demonstrators.
- Key Players
- Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, US, Iran
- US Action
- Moved personnel from a major base in Qatar, warned staff in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait
- Iran's Threats
- Retaliation with strikes on US military and shipping targets
- US Warnings
- Possible intervention against Iran's crackdown on protests
- Gulf Nations' Concerns
- Fears of 'grave blowbacks' in the region
- Trump's Decision
- Changed course after receiving assurances from Iran
- Diplomatic Efforts
- Ongoing dialogue to consolidate trust and goodwill
Sources
Where Are The Main US Military Bases In The Middle East?
Trump’s military buildup in Caribbean limits his options in Iran
Trump Withdraws Some Military Bases From Middle East After Iran Warns Neighbours
As Tensions With Iran Escalate, How US Bases In Middle East Are Positioned
Iran hits back at US after Trump's warning of military action; details
US Redeploying South China Sea Carrier To Middle East Amid Tensions With Iran
‘Swift, decisive blow to regime’: What Donald Trump wants US military intervention in Iran to be
Saudi, Qatar, Oman Convinced Trump To 'Give Iran a Chance': Senior Saudi Official