Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have reportedly taken steps that could draw them closer to direct involvement in the ongoing conflict with Iran, according to the Wall Street Journal. The newspaper cited sources familiar with the matter, suggesting a potential escalation in the Middle East war. These developments come amid heightened tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in recent weeks.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Saudi Arabia has agreed to allow U.S. military access to King Fahd Air Base, a reversal from earlier statements that its bases would not be used against Iran. This move could facilitate broader US operations in the region while signalling Saudi Arabia’s willingness to participate more actively in the conflict. Officials familiar with the discussions emphasized that this represents a significant shift in Riyadh’s stance toward its long-time regional rival.

According to the WSJ, the United Arab Emirates also took concrete steps affecting Iran’s regional support networks by closing an Iranian-owned hospital and club. These closures reportedly undercut a key source of logistical and social support for Tehran, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s alignment with US and Israeli objectives in the conflict. Videos reportedly circulated showing some missiles used in attacks on Iran being launched from Bahrain, though the US military declined to confirm whether regional partners were directly assisting its operations.

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Market reactions were swift following the report, with crude oil prices edging higher and US stock-index futures erasing earlier gains. Analysts noted that the involvement of Gulf partners could intensify the conflict, raising concerns about disruptions to energy supplies in the strategically critical region. Recent attacks, including Israel’s strike on an Iranian gas field and Iran’s retaliatory actions on energy assets across the Middle East, have already increased volatility in global markets.

President Donald Trump recently announced a five-day pause on attacks targeting Iranian energy infrastructure, citing “productive conversations” with Iran. Details of these discussions remain unclear, including the participants and scope of potential agreements. Reports indicate that intermediaries, including Steve Witkoff, were engaged in negotiations with Iranian officials such as Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, though Iranian authorities have denied holding any direct talks with the United States.

The moves by Saudi Arabia and the UAE highlight growing frustration among Gulf partners over Iran’s regional actions. Observers suggest that if these steps translate into active military support, the operational dynamics of the Middle East conflict could shift significantly. Both the U.S. and regional stakeholders are closely monitoring developments, with the possibility of expanded engagement in Iran’s vicinity carrying implications for diplomatic, security, and energy considerations worldwide.

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