If Iran Clashes with US, Regional Tensions Rise

Tehran / Washington: The rising tensions between Iran and the United States could potentially ignite a broader regional crisis, drawing in several key Middle Eastern nations including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the UAE. Analysts warn that if Iran escalates its confrontation with the US, it may find itself facing multiple fronts diplomatically, economically, and militarily.

At the heart of the issue is Iran’s growing influence in the region through its proxy networks, military presence, and ideological alliances. Any direct conflict with the US could trigger spillover effects in neighboring countries that are closely aligned with American interests or house US military bases.

Qatar, for instance, hosts the largest US military base in the Middle East Al Udeid Air Base and would likely be involved in any large scale military operation. While Doha has maintained open channels with both Washington and Tehran, its strategic location makes it vulnerable in case of escalation.

Saudi Arabia, Iran’s longtime rival, is already engaged in proxy conflicts with Tehran across Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon. A US-Iran clash could push Riyadh to support American efforts more overtly, especially if Iranian missiles or drone attacks threaten its oil infrastructure again, as seen in past years.

Iraq, despite being a close neighbor and having a majority Shia population with cultural ties to Iran, also hosts thousands of US troops and is frequently caught in the middle. Iran-backed militias operate inside Iraq, and any escalation could destabilize Iraq’s fragile security.

Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a key US ally and major trading hub, has already faced attacks from suspected Iranian proxies. A wider conflict could severely affect its economy and security, compelling it to take a stronger stance. Experts believe that Iran’s regional strategy, designed for deterrence through strategic depth, could backfire if multiple countries perceive its actions as a threat to regional stability.